The Joy of Unselfish Service
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What are some of the ways you can serve others selflessly?
- How does serving others bring joy and fulfillment?
- What lessons can we learn from the story of the widow's mite?
- How can we apply the principle of unselfish service in our daily lives?
- What does it mean to give your all to the Lord?
Topics
Serve Others Selflessly
Cristina B. Franco emphasizes the importance of serving others with pure intentions and without seeking personal gain. She shares the story of Sister Victoria Antonietti, whose unselfish service and love for her Primary class left a lasting impact.
Sometimes as we serve, we get to sit in different seats. Some are quite comfy and some other ones are not, but we have promised our Father in Heaven that we will serve Him and others with love and do His will in all things.
The secret ingredient in Victoria’s cake was the love she had for those she served and her unselfish sacrifice in our behalf.
- Why is it important to serve others selflessly?
- What can we learn from Sister Victoria Antonietti's example of service?
- How can you show love and sacrifice in your service to others?
- What are some ways you can serve in your community or church without seeking recognition or reward?
Learn from the Widow's Mite
Franco recounts the story of the widow's mite to illustrate the principle of giving all that we have, regardless of the amount. The widow's pure intentions and complete sacrifice are highlighted as an example of true devotion and service.
The widow did not appear to hold a noticeable position in the society of her time. She actually held something more important: her intentions were pure, and she gave all she had to give.
In the eyes of the Savior, the "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart," she gave her all.
- What lesson does the story of the widow's mite teach us about giving?
- How did the widow's actions demonstrate true devotion and service?
- In what ways can you give your all to the Lord?
- How can you ensure your intentions are pure when you serve others?
Follow the Example of Jesus Christ
Franco shares teachings from President Dallin H. Oaks and President Thomas S. Monson on following the Savior's example of unselfish service. She emphasizes that true happiness and fulfillment come from serving others as Jesus did.
Our Savior gave Himself in unselfish service. He taught that each of us should follow Him by denying ourselves of selfish interests in order to serve others.
Perhaps when we make face-to-face contact with our Maker, we will not be asked, "How many positions did you hold?" but rather, "How many people did you help?"
- Why is it important to follow the example of Jesus Christ in service?
- What do President Oaks and President Monson teach about unselfish service?
- How can you deny yourself of selfish interests to serve others?
- What are some specific ways you can follow the Savior's example in your daily life?
Serve with Love and Sacrifice
Franco underscores that the essence of true service lies in the love and sacrifice behind our actions. She testifies that service coupled with love and sacrifice is sacred and brings us closer to the Savior.
It will certainly matter that we do all that we do with the special ingredient of service coupled with love and sacrifice.
I testify that that love is made sacred through sacrifice—the sacrifice of a teacher and even more through the ultimate and eternal sacrifice of the Son of God.
- What makes service sacred?
- How does love and sacrifice enhance our service?
- How can you incorporate more love and sacrifice into your service?
- What are some examples of service in your life where you have felt closer to the Savior?
Evaluate Your Service
Franco invites us to reflect on our own service and consider whether we are giving our all to the Lord. She challenges us to serve with pure intentions and to prioritize helping others over seeking personal gain or recognition.
Sisters, are we giving our all to the Lord without reservation?
Are we sacrificing of our time and talents so the rising generation can learn to love the Lord and keep His commandments?
- Why is it important to evaluate our service regularly?
- What does it mean to give your all to the Lord?
- How can you ensure your service is aligned with the Lord's will?
- In what areas of your life can you improve your service to others?
