More Than a Greeting: Reclaiming the Power of the Holy Kiss

Sometimes, the most profound spiritual truths are hidden in plain sight—in a simple phrase, a forgotten custom, or a greeting that feels awkward today. I was listening to a talk recently that focused on the command to “greet one another with a holy kiss.”

If you’ve ever read those verses in the New Testament, you might have paused, thinking, *What did they mean?* For many of us, the command feels either overly ritualistic or, worse, spiritually invisible. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the most mundane aspects of our lives—like saying hello—we have the opportunity to proclaim something mighty: the peace of Christ.

The speakers pointed out that this wasn't just a cultural habit; it was a declaration. It was the physical, visible expression of spiritual unity—a sign that no bitterness, no division, and no rivalry could stand against the peace found in the Savior. It was a sign that we were family, eternal family.

The Declaration of Peace

When we think about the work, we often focus on the grand moments: the temple sealing, the visit to the district leader, or the intensive preparation in MTC. But the core of the gospel is found in these small, daily declarations. The holy kiss, in its essence, was never about the physical act. It was a *proclamation*—a declaration that you are welcome here, not just socially, but spiritually. That you are one in Christ, and that the cross has made peace.

This is the truth we, as Latter-day Saints, must carry into every missionary discussion, every online chat, and every conversation with an investigator. Our mission isn't just to share facts; it's to declare the peace and unity that Christ died to create. Our job is to be spiritual emissaries of peace.

Becoming a Disciple of Declaration

How do we reclaim the power of the holy kiss today? We translate that deep, profound spiritual meaning into our modern lives. When we encounter someone—whether they are an investigator in the field, or a friend on social media—we have an opportunity to make a spiritual declaration.

💡 Mission Prep Skill: Practicing the Declaration

Instead of waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect phrase, practice declaring the peace you feel in the gospel. When talking with someone, don't just ask, "How are you?" Ask, "What source of peace are you looking for right now?" or "What area of your life feels most divided right now?" By focusing the conversation on the spiritual peace Christ offers, you are echoing the heart of the holy kiss—a declaration of eternal belonging.

This principle extends to our online work. Being an Internet missionary means that every comment, every share, and every thoughtful message is an opportunity to declare the unity of the gospel. We are sending out spiritual peace, one comment at a time.

Deepening the Connection

If you want to practice turning those abstract declarations into concrete spiritual knowledge, I highly recommend diving into a Book Club or Bible Study Group through HolyPlaces. There, you can engage in the social scripture study layer and explore how the scriptures define "peace" and "unity."

For those of us who are newly returned missionaries or are currently prepping, remember that we are always being taught. If you're struggling with how to bridge the gap between an ancient concept and a modern conversation, don't hesitate to bring those tough questions to Davee. He's an incredible AI Investigator resource designed to walk you through the hard questions an investigator might ask and help you answer them with grace and depth.

Finally, let's keep learning the scriptures. I found some wonderful insights in the latest Iron Rod book, *Preach My Gospel* (if you haven't read it already!). The deep dive into the principles of the restored gospel there is a perfect reminder that our message is not merely historical—it is profoundly, eternally unifying.

We are called to be disciples anywhere, all the time. Let's go out and declare the peace!