To some, it seems unfair that those who appear to be unrighteous are often blessed with the good things of this earth, while many humble and good people are left wanting. Some may even blame God, murmur and complain. The Preacher tells us that ‘The sun shines on both the righteous and the unrighteous, and the rain will fall where it lists.’ Yet the humble servant is grateful and he recognizes God’s hand in all the blessings of this earth. He covets not his neighbors wealth and blessings.
I have always appreciated the book of Malachi, not just for its prophetic verses about tithing and about the return of Elijah in the last days, but I also appreciate the assurances of justice and the value of service in this life. A synopsis reads thus; “Ye have said, It is vain to serve God and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinances…we call the proud happy: yea, they that work wickedness are set up…The Lord hearkened…and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord…and they shall be mine …in that day when I make up my jewels…then shall ye…discern between…him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.” (Malachi 3:14–18)
Many faithful servants may struggle financially and yet those who recognize that they are a part of this great and glorious work will go forth in these last days finding happiness and joy in spite of their humble circumstances.
The Lord admonished us in D&C 64:33–34, “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, (service) for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great. Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days.” And verse 41, “For behold, I say unto you that Zion shall flourish, and the glory of the Lord shall be upon her.” This prophetic statement was made in 1831. Have we not been witnesses of its fulfillment? Is not Zion flourishing and is not the glory of the Lord upon her? Has not a great work come forth out of small beginnings?
The restored Church provides a way of life that is comprehensive, that if followed, will provide a way to modify behavior and that will teach us how to become enlightened even until we progress and reach the “perfect day.” (D&C 50:24) It provides a very important ingredient that is found in abundance within the church, and that is service to others. Service is that element that causes one to grow in harmony with his fellows, it is where compassion is born and where charity thrives.
The work that we are doing to redeem our dead is such a significant part of this great work that without its going forward, the whole earth could be wasted at His coming. Let us not be weary, for the Lord requireth our hearts to be in this work. We must have a willing mind, so that we can proceed forward in a small way to bring about great things, the sealing of families together forever. God bless us to this end.