The One

In a recent interview with my mission president I was counseled to focus on the one.  The one person that I can reach. The one person who needs me the most. The spirit touched my mind that day and I have thought about that direction again and again.

True disciples of Jesus Christ have always been concerned for the one.  Jesus Christ is our greatest example. In this way we can become more like the Savior who was perfect in his efforts

to reach each one.

Whether he was speaking to thousands:

“And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth” (3 Ne. 11:15) “And when he had said these words, he wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them”

(3 Ne. 17:21)

Or if he was ministering to an individual:

“And he ministered unto him even as he ministered unto the Nephites; and all this, that this man might know that he was God, because of the many great works which the Lord had showed unto him.”

(Ether 3: 18) 

As a missionary I am blessed with the opportunity to enter peoples homes and make life changing connections with them. As I minister to the one as Christ did, we are both edified together. My prayer as I enter each home is to be window to the love that Christ has for each one of the people in that home. 

Paul K. Sybrowsky posed the question. “What would our Savior do with the opportunities that we have to affect the one?” Each one of us can make a difference in someone’s life, even his or her eternal life, but we must act; we must do; we must labor diligently.

We are to be our brother’s keeper. We cannot neglect this commission given by our Savior. We must be concerned for the one.  Linda Burton said, “For some, serving or ministering one by one, following the Savior’s example, doesn’t come easily. But with practice, each of us can become more like the Savior as we serve God’s children. To help us better love one another, I would like to suggest four words to remember: “First observe, then serve.”

After my interview I have received a renewed enthusiasm to minister and care for the one. I know that each of us is a child of God and a “chosen vessel” to him. I pray that I will be an instrument in his hands to share that love with each one that I encounter.