Artworks for Doctrine & Covenants 51-70
Our artistic exploration of the Doctrine & Covenants continues! Each month, we'll share artworks from our permanent collection or visiting exhibitions that accompany the coming month's Come, Follow Me readings. You can also subscribe to get email reminders when new artworks are ready or follow along weekly on Instagram or Facebook. We hope that art-lovers everywhere will be inspired by these artworks as they complement their gospel study, family discussions, and church classes with fine art from around the world.
Guest Author: Abigail Beus
May 26 - June 1
Life was not easy for the early saints as they attempted to find solace in their constant persecutions and relocations. However, even amid their worries they tried to focus on their spiritual growth and becoming “faithful,” “just,” and “wise” because they knew that “the Lord shall come. . . and he shall reward every man, and the poor shall rejoice”(D&C 56:19).
Just like in Calvin Fletcher’s painting 'Pioneer Home' and the experiences of the early saints, we too may find ourselves looking down and feeling bogged down by anxieties and the weight of the world, not knowing that Christ remains just outside our doorway.
What can we do to endure to the end and look up to find Christ’s guidance and power in our lives?
June 2-8
Even before building a temple, the early Saints sought humble places to connect with God. They relied not on their “natural eyes,” but on the spirit to see beyond their struggles to the promises of the gospel (D&C 58:3).
Like them, the figure in John Hafen’s painting 'O My Father' has found a sacred, solitary space for communion with God. His head bowed in earnest prayer captures a moment of deep personal devotion, approaching God with “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” (D&C 59:8). Today, we are still called to offer vows of righteousness “on all days and at all times” (D&C 59:11).
Where are the sacred spaces where you drop your hat, cane, and all distractions to kneel before God?
June 9-15
As this family gathers to celebrate their love for one another and the sacred season of Christmas, their song becomes more than music; it is transformed into an expression of testimony. With each note, they draw closer not only to each other but also to the Savior who encourages us to “Be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst” (D&C 61:36). In disparate young and old voices lifted in unity, they invite Christ into their home, for He is “with the faithful always” (D&C 62:9).
When have you felt Christ’s presence in your home?
June 16-22
Few scriptural stories capture humble, willing obedience as powerfully as Isaac on the altar. Here, Isaac is shown looking upwards in faith and submission. His hands are bound, but his legs remain unrestrained—suggesting he could flee but chooses to stay as a willing offering. Isaac’s obedience exemplifies Christ’s call for “the heart and a willing mind” of His servants (D&C 64:34).
Even when we do not understand the trials and sacrifices we are called to endure, if we approach them with the same humble submission as Isaac, the Lord reminds us that “out of small things proceedeth that which is great” and He can use us to lay “the foundation of a great work” (D&C 64:33).
June 23-30
Mahonri M. Young’s painting 'Children and Pony' imagines the ideal of a family in harmony. Even in this moment of leisure, there is an evident respect for one another as they enjoy each other’s company in the peaceful, Edenic yard. In Doctrine and Covenants 68:28, God instructs the Saints to “teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord”—a principle that, when followed, transforms such scenes into the standard for all who inhabit Zion.
Like a loving parent, God leads and teaches us in the ways of righteousness and eternal salvation, just as we are called to guide our own children. Through His instruction, we can receive “the riches of eternity” (D&C 67:2).
How have you felt guided by your Heavenly Parents?
