serving

"On these ministering visits, I sometimes wonder what to say and do, especially when those I visit are going through difficult challenges. But instead of focusing on what I might say or do, I have found that focusing on the Master minister—our Savior, Jesus Christ—helps me most when ministering to others."

We Follow the Master Minister  

By Elder Juan Pablo Villar

Liahona, October 2024

Elder Villar then quotes 3 Nephi 17:7-9 where Jesus calls for the nephites to bring all of their sick and afflicted to Him. The thought struck me that if someone held back and didn't go forward to be healed, they probably wouldn't be.  

It's easier to serve than to be served for many if us. My grandmother says that not asking for help is denying others the blessing of serving.  

On the other hand, sometimes there isn't really anything useful someone can do. There's nothing necessary. That's when ministers can get creative. There are a lot of kind and even helpful things that aren't actually necessary. Bring treats or a meal. Send a card. Just listen on the phone or in person. Send a positive thought, a funny meme, or an interesting story. Just be involved.  

Both sides need to start reaching out more. These last days are full of people trying to pull us apart. We have to reach for each other in small and simple ways more often. Don't wait for the bif stuff. Unity is built in the small stuff.