Following the Savior's example in service is something we all know how to do. The key is to become aware of opportunities to serve and then to act. Our invitation to you this month is to open your eyes, your ears, and more importantly your heart, to the yearnings of those around you - your family members, your friends, your neighbors, the sisters in your visiting teaching circle - and then to act in loving ways to meet their needs. If you aren't aware of any needs, just act and do something kind for one of those people to let them know you care. You can be "an instrument in the hands of the Lord" as you help others feel of His love for them.
Listen to this inspiring story shared by President Monson at the last General Relief Society meeting:
President Eyring taught, "Our Heavenly Father hears the prayers of His children across the earth pleading for food to eat, for clothes to cover their bodies, and for the dignity that would come from being able to provide for themselves. Those pleas have reached Him since He placed men and women on the earth. You learn of those needs where you live and from across the world. Your heart is often stirred with feelings of sympathy. When you meet someone struggling to find employment, you feel that desire to help. You feel it when you go into the home of a widow and see that she has no food. You feel it when you see photographs of crying children sitting in the ruins of their home destroyed by an earthquake or by fire. Because the Lord hears their cries and feels your deep compassion for them, He has from the beginning of time provided ways for His disciples to help. He has invited His children to consecrate their time, their means, and themselves to join with Him in serving others."
At the end of each day review the words of this hymn, and ponder on the things you have done to serve others that day.
Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?
Then wake up and do something more
Than dream of your mansion above.
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love.
Strive to improve each day in your desire and efforts to serve others in loving, meaningful ways.
