Our theme for this visiting teaching convention was taken from the words of King Benjamin to his people. “And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”I think this is one of the most favorite scriptures of any members of this church. When one thinks of quoting a verse about service, this scripture always comes up first. If there is a most memorized scripture from the Book of Mormon, this one is for sure the most memorized one.
How come almost everyone in the church knows this verse not only by memory but also by heart. What is so special about this verse? Is it because its easy to memorize? Or is it because of the meaning behind this verse that makes it so special?
I think one reason why, is that this scripture tells us about service to God, our Heavenly Father. Sometimes in our lives, after receiving so many rich and wonderful blessings from God, people would ask themselves, how could I show my gratitude to my dear Father in Heaven in return of all of these wonderful blessings He has given me.
Then, we realize from this verse that when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are also already in the service of our God. This afternoon, in this convention, we have learned so much about service, of how and why we serve. We learned from Sister Jackson how to be an effective Visiting Teacher. Sister Abby taught us how to serve with love. And we knew from Sister Copper that when we serve others many more rich and wonderful blessings will come.
We have heard and learned so many beautiful stories and experiences of sisters serving as Visiting Teachers of the church. Sisters who visit and are being visited both benefits these blessings.
When the Prophet Joseph Smith founded the Relief Society it had two main purposes. First, is to provide help for the poor and the needy, and secondly, to save souls. Throughout the world, sisters in the Relief Society works with the priesthood holders to carry out the mission of the church.
Sisters, the very best way that you can contribute to the mission of the church is to accept an assignment as a visiting teacher. As you visit and serve your assigned sisters, take time to teach the gospel and to be a close friend to them. Help them to understand that this church is the only true church of God upon the face of this earth by showing your faithful love and service.
As a sister in the Relief Society, you are a member of a worldwide sisterhood, united in devotion to Jesus Christ. You join with other daughters of God as a woman of faith, virtue, vision and charity.
I know that if you serve the Lord your God in faith and love, you will find that life has a wonderful purpose and direction. I know that as you share your testimony and your talents, you will grow spiritually.
