Mormon Share Object Lessons: Teach Children LDS Values

The Mormon Faith and the Concept of Sharing: Exploring Object Lessons

When it comes to understanding complex religious concepts, stories and examples, often referred to as object lessons, serve as powerful tools. Within the Mormon faith, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, these object lessons are frequently used to illustrate principles such as love, sacrifice, and the concept of sharing. Let's explore some of these object lessons and the lessons they teach.

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

One of the most well-known object lessons in the Mormon faith is the Parable of the Lost Sheep, found in the New Testament. This story is not only a perfect representation of the Atonement of Jesus Christ but also a beautiful example of the love and care that God has for each of us.

Jesus, in this parable, likens the shepherd's efforts in searching for one lost sheep to God's efforts in seeking for each one of His children. This parable underscores the importance of unity and the responsibility we have to help ensure that no one is left behind spiritually.

Caring for the One

In this parable, the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost. This action teaches us the importance of individual care and concern. It reminds us that each person is valuable in God's eyes, and it's our duty to reach out to those who may feel lost or neglected.

This principle is baked into Mormon welfare principles, encouraging members to personally care for those in need, with the Church offering assistance through its benevolent programs such as bishops' storehouses and Deseret Industries.

Rejoicing in Recovery

Another vital lesson from this parable is the importance of joy when someone is found. The shepherd invites friends and neighbors to rejoice with him when he finds the lost sheep. This joy is a reflection of God's happiness and ours when someone returns to the fold.

Mormons believe in the power of salvation and the joy that comes from assisting in that process. Conversion stories and baptisms are celebrated in the Mormon faith, reflecting this joy in seeing souls return to the path.

The Good Samaritan

The story of the Good Samaritan, found in the New Testament, is another object lesson that teaches the importance of charity and love for our fellow men and women, regardless of their religion, race, or creed.

This story is particularly resonant within Mormon communities, given their emphasis on service, humanitarian efforts, and their worthy cause of eliminating poverty, disease, and hunger through projects like the Perpetual Education Fund and the Church's humanitarian services.

Seeing Others in Need

The story begins with a man being robbed and left for dead. He is ignored by those who pass by, including religious leaders. It is only the Samaritan, a person whom the Jewish society of the time looked down upon, who stops to help.

This part of the story is a call to action, reminding Mormons to have their eyes and hearts open to those in need, regardless of societal norms or their perceived status.

Sharing Our Time, Talents, and Treasures

The Good Samaritan not only helped the injured man but also took him to an inn and paid for his care, promising to return to pay any additional costs. This act of charity involves sharing not just our time, but also our talents and resources.

Mormons consider this act of sharing an obligation, as found in Mosiah 2:17 in the Book of Mormon, where King Benjamin teaches that we are to "imitate that which ye have seen me do." This includes caring for the sick, taking the hungry to our homes, and sharing our substance with others.

Embracing these object lessons can enrich our understanding of Mormon teachings and strengthen our testimonies. As we strive to live these principles, we not only become better disciples of Christ but also create a more united, caring, and sharing community.