Saturday, August 9

By Peggy Michael of Cantonment, Florida, USA

Generously share the invitation, ministries, and sacraments through which people can encounter the Living Christ who heals and reconciles through redemptive relationships in sacred community. The restoring of persons to healthy or righteous relationships with God, others, themselves, and the earth is at the heart of the purpose of your journey as a people of faith.

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:2b

Just how does mission begin? For me, it recently began at the dinner table. After church we gathered in the friendship hall for lunch and visiting. I greeted a woman sitting alone, and I set my plate next to hers. Her eyes were red from crying, and she looked sad. I asked, “May I give you a hug?” I asked her if she wanted to talk after lunch. She nodded yes.

Another elder and I took Julie to a quiet room where we could talk. Her first words were “Your hug is the best feeling I’ve had all day.” I quickly gave her another. Julie sobbed out her story to us. She felt helpless as she suffered through life on a meager income.

Her body was thin, and she was still losing weight. She needed medical help but could not afford it. Besides that, she was caring for her grandchildren. When her emotions subsided, the other elder and I promised our support. We told her of our congregation’s well-stocked pantry and a network of agencies that also could help. We assured her our congregation offered community and worship, including the sacraments.

We explained the sacrament of laying on of hands for the sick. Julie asked that we present her to the Lord for a blessing of wholeness. The calmness of her spirit and hope in her face testified that she felt God’s healing touch.

At the end of our visit, we promised Julie we would journey with her as long as she wanted us to. We parted with another hug. This opportunity to serve reminds me that even if our deeds seem small, they may be the best ministry that happens all day to a hurting soul. Small deeds can start us on a mission to end suffering.

Prayer for Peace Creator God, help us reach out to people who need the touch of community. Make us watchful and aware of loneliness and need. May we respond to the need for peace.

Spiritual Practice: Invite People to Christ Read and reflect on Doctrine and Covenants 162:3b and 163:2b. Pray to be aware of people who might be receptive, and therefore blessed, by your sharing of the message of the Living Christ. Imagine being in relationship with them and inviting them to Christ. In preparation, discover your personal testimony of Christ. “Be persistent in your witness and diligent in your mission to the world.” Repeat this mantra throughout the day: “Christ’s mission, our mission, my mission.”

Peace Covenant Today, God, I will look into the eyes of your people, and respond to their tears.