Am I Goodly?
I Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father;
and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days,
nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days;
yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of
God, therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my days.
- The Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi 1:1
So... are we goodly? Am I goodly?
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Still on 1 Nephi 1:1
"...therefore I was taught in all the learning of my father."
Nephi here, relates his close and intimate relationship with his father. I can imagine that this was a relationship that had been cultivated by both of them. Lehi, being goodly must have been, by definition, actively seeking a relationship with God, and as a father, truly desired to cultivate that in his sons. Lehi had a wealth of knowledge, experience and wisdom to share, recognizing his duty to teach his posterity. I can guess from these wrigings that Nephi was also a willing student, recognizing his duty as a son, to be mentored by his mortal maker. As a son resembles his father, being made in his image, Nephi sought to enhance that image beyond just physical recognition. Lehi served as a "goodly" stepping stone to help Nephi connect with Christ and Heavenly Father.
...have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received His image in your countenances?
- Alma 5:14
Fathers have a sacred responsibility to teach - particularly - their sons, engage with them and build such a mentoring relationship like Christ and His Father, our Father, have.
