Sunday Lesson #34- Service

Taught by Katie P.

"Unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives."  President Thomas S. Monson

Some great scriptures on service in the Book of Mormon:
Moroni 7:47-48
Alma 37:6-7

President Spencer W. Kimball taught, " God does notice us, and he watches over us.  But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs.  Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom... In the Doctrine and Covenants we read about how important it is to 'succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.' (D&C 81:5.)  

So often, our acts of service consist of simple encouragement or of giving mundane help with mundane tasks, but what glorious consequences can flow from mundane acts and small but deliberate deeds!" (Ensign, Dec. 1974)  Our service need not wait until we devise some elaborate means or project.  Often the simplest, most obvious thing is what is needed most, like a thought expressed by telephone or a note in the mail.

A letter that we received from our stake Relief Society President, Sister McFarlane said,  "President Strong is concerned that we need a better understanding of the "So Great A Cause" effort, and what it is about.  There are a multitude of things we can do, but it must become our way of life, a lifestyle for us, that we look to give, to strengthen those around us near and far.

August 13th is not THE event, but is a celebration of what individuals and families have done and will be doing to "export strength."

Here are some recent examples:

A family in our stake is helping with the travel expenses of a family that cannot afford to make the trip to be sealed in the temple.

Some have signed up on mormon.org proclaiming faith and testimony.

Pres. Strong has given a Triple Combination to someone at work.

We need to change our viewpoint, our vision if you will of this inspired direction for our Stake."

"It is only when we love God and Christ with all of our hearts, souls, and minds that we are able to share this love with our neighbors through acts of kindness and service- the way that the Savior would love and serve all of us if He were among us today.

When this pure love of Christ- or charity- envelopes us, we think, feel, and act more like Heavenly Father and Jesus would think, feel, and act.  Our motivation and heartfelt desire are like unto that of the Savior."  Elder M. Russell Ballard