The theme for our Visiting Teaching Convention can be found on the 9th and 10th verses of the 6th chapter of the Book of Galatians, “And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not, as we have therefore opportunity, let us do good to all men, especially unto them who are the of the household of faith.”A few years ago, a very strong and violent typhoon hits Hong Kong. Two hours before signal no. 8 was hoisted radios and TV’s informed the people to stay at home, be in safe places, and stay out of beaches or waterfronts. But in spite of the warnings, some water skiing enthusiasts found their way to the beaches, enjoyed the day while ignoring the violent strikes of winds and strong heavy waves. After the violent storm passed away the radio announced that a couple of water skiers disappeared in the sea and were pronounced dead, while one of their friends was able to make it with the help of a bypasser who saw him screaming for help in the waters. I will never forget the foolishness of these people.
There are some people out there, members and non-members, that are of this same experience. They are there, if we can only hear their silent signs and voices everywhere that say, “I feel that there is something, somewhere, that I need, that will give me peace, that will comfort me and let me know that my life has purpose and importance, that I belong.”
In my life I have known that the gospel of Jesus Christ was the single greatest influence to make people happier, healthier, and more successful. As I have thought about this, I think of the statement of the Savior: “By every word which proceeded forth out of the mouth of God, men began to exercise faith in Christ; and thus by faith, they did lay hold upon every good thing.” (Moro. 7:25.)
Brothers and sisters, everyone has a need to belong. The gospel of Jesus Christ can answer this great need for every man, woman, and child upon this earth—for every family, every single person. Everyone who joins His church immediately belongs, no matter who he is or where he is. There is a brotherhood and sisterhood that goes beyond races and colors, and it ties all men together.
Seventeen years ago, I joined this Church with no friends or relatives in the branch where I am attending. But on the first Sunday I attended the church I could not believe what was happening. The members makes me feel like I belonged to a warm, compassionate beings—beings who truly loved me and brought security, warmth, and the true love of Christ into my life. I was never the same again. I now feel that I belonged to a larger family and were truly happier than I had ever been in my life.
The Apostle Paul, himself is a convert to the church. He personally learned not only of the great eternal truths which edified his whole being and changed his life, but also that he belonged to the body of Christ—the people of the kingdom of God on earth who loved and served each other with an open heart and spirit because of the love they felt. Listen to his words as he described how it was: “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God.” (Eph. 2:19.)
I have never been a stranger anywhere I have gone—Bagiou, Pangasinan, Ilocos, Bacolod, Manila or Hong Kong. I belonged the minute I was known that I am a member of the church of Jesus Christ. Everyone who lives upon this earth needs this feeling of acceptance, and the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and His church bring it about. Even though a member lives alone, she is never alone. She belongs; she contributes; she is never forgotten.
Recently, when Sister Ganzon had her operation, we become so weary. But something happened that made our hearts full. Many of you sisters come to pay your visits. Sister Christensen was there day after day to see to it that correct medications were given. Sister Mitchelle offered her prayers and assurance. Sister Bing skips her work just to attend our needs. Elder Mitchelle came to help me administer the priesthood blessing. Many of you sisters fasted and offered your prayers for my wife’s recovery. These are just small and simple things you’ve done for us, sisters, but a big thing for us. We are so privilege of belonging to the church of Jesus Christ, here upon the earth.
In reality, in His church we are always home—home in the things we believe, the standards we hold dear, the spirit we need, and the help, security, and belonging that are there. Latter-day Saints everywhere open their hearts, their homes, their purses, their lives, in service and love to others. This is done by the love and joy they feel from God and for each other. Indeed, this is the essence of the gospel as the Savior lived and taught it. Remember his words: “Be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine.” (D&C 38:27.) “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Matt. 25:40.)
Everyone who belongs to His church wants to reach out, to serve, love, aid, and care for others with kindness and genuine concern. In humble, selfless ways each of us can be a light to others who may secretly or silently be longing or even praying to find that sense of belonging.
I remember a few years ago an inactive member of the relief society who, in a moment of prayer, interview, and invitation to serve, felt the love and real concern of her leaders and wept openly for the opportunity to mend her ways and belong to the spirit and the sisterhood she felt. We belong to the organization of the church of Jesus Christ. We are really needed. We have to become more responsive to the needs of others.
Visiting Teachers, let us follow the counsel of Moroni, the prophet. He said: “And after they had been received unto baptism, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God. … [And they did] speak one with another concerning the welfare of their souls.” (Moro. 6:4-5.) Let us reach out to every member, that he might belong to the household of God.
And members, may we reach out with all the energy and love we have, first to help every member of our family, and then to help members—every one of them—and finally everyone everywhere, so that all might have the great privilege and honor and blessing of belonging to the kingdom of God. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment