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The Power of Service

I received this story from my father, who got it from his bishop. It has been edited for usage and clarity. Names have been changed for privacy:

This is an amazing story, a miracle really, that happened right here in the loving Lake Elsinore Ward.

There was a very less-active man married to a very active woman: the Smith family. They lived in Horse Thief and had three little children. Sister Smith held callings and juggled her kids and was as active and faithful as could be. What an example she was. Brother Smith was a good guy, but just didn't care much for the Church. 

They asked us to help them move out when Brother Smith found his dream job across the country on the East Coast. As always, our sweet priesthood brethren and our Relief Society sisters jumped in without hesitation to assist in the move. 

The Lord works in mysterious ways! Here's the rest of the story as written in a Facebook message from Brother Smith: 
"Hello Bishop Johnson! Thanks for accepting my friend request. Sister Smith says she's updated you in Christmas letters about my progressing LDSification.

"I thought to get in touch with you because I came across a photo I took the day some guys from your ward helped me pack our whole house into a truck! The service I received and the love I felt that day were important parts of my conversion. I'd like to show you the pic, and maybe if the guys in it are still around, you could thank them for me. You could also let them know that the part-member family they helped that day is now sealed in the temple! I've served in many Young Men callings and am thrilled to now be Ward Mission Leader. I have a great love for my Father in Heaven, and I love to serve His children in any way He'll let me. Since we live in a university town, I get a lot of opportunities to follow the good brothers in that photo, helping people move. That is some of my favorite service because it's a hard transition, moving, so people are very clearly in need and willing to accept the service. Also, you really get to know new members when you wrestle their pianos in and out of apartments.

"The photo is attached.

"Also, I would like to thank you for baptizing my son Max. I'm sorry that I couldn't have been more a part of that ordinance and that special day. But you must have done a good job! He is an amazing young man that his peers and adults alike enjoy and respect. Two weeks ago he got his patriarchal blessing and I got to share in it with him. Awesome!

"Brother Smith"



This story is just one example of the power of service in bringing people to Christ. Never underestimate the influence the smallest act of service can have in someone's life.

Challenge: Accept any opportunity to serve, no matter how small or simple.
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Comments

Anonymous said…
thanks for sharing- it is a great ward and the folks never tire of serving others-DAD
October 21, 2011 at 1:06 AM
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