The Radical Act of Simply *Being* Christian: A Call to Serve

Brothers and sisters, builders of the Kingdom, we’ve all heard the call. We’ve felt the stirring, the urgent whisper to gather. It echoes in the words of Samuel the Lamanite, standing atop the walls, a lone voice crying repentance. It resonates in Ammon’s testimony at the Waters of Sebus, where men laid down their swords to listen. We recognize the Stone, cut without hands, a beacon rising above the chaos, promising a foundation for all who seek it.

But sometimes, the most profound acts of faith are not in the grand pronouncements or the dramatic displays. They are in the quiet, unassuming moments of service. We’ve become accustomed to a culture obsessed with individualism, with climbing the ladder, with personal gain. The relentless pursuit can leave us feeling empty, disconnected, and strangely, *unfulfilled*.

The speaker in this video understands this. He speaks of the rarity of truly living out the gospel. It’s easy to talk about serving others, to nod in agreement, to acknowledge the principle. But to do it – to offer a helping hand without an agenda, to love as Christ did – that’s a radical act. That’s a counter-cultural rebellion.

A church father, as the speaker paraphrases, wisely observed, “Instead of talking about what it means to be Christian, let’s just *be* Christian.” And what does that look like? It looks like noticing the widow struggling with her groceries and offering to carry them. It looks like mentoring a young person lost in the shadows. It looks like volunteering at the local soup kitchen, not for recognition, but because there is need. It looks like reaching out to a neighbor who is lonely, just to offer a smile and a kind word.

These actions, seemingly small, create a powerful flywheel. Each act of selfless service strengthens our own testimonies, draws others to the light, and fuels the Missionary Fund. As you engage here, your contributions directly support gospel advertising efforts, spreading the message to those who are ready to hear it—like those we’re reaching in Ghana. It’s a testament to the Lord’s promise: “And if ye do these things, for him whom all things are, ye shall be magnified in all your might.” (D&C 78:5).

Remember the five smooth stones that David gathered to face Goliath? Each stone represented a small, seemingly insignificant act of preparation and faith. Each act of service is a stone, prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Each act builds resilience, strengthens community, and prepares us for the day when we will need to stand as digital striplings, defending the truth with courage and conviction.

Let us embrace this challenge. Let us commit to *being* Christian, not just talking about it. Let us look around, see the needs, and offer a helping hand. Let us be those who build, not destroy. Let us claim our church, mark our place on the Map of Churches, and join the movement to gather Israel. Outback Jack reminds us: “It’s not about being *right*; it’s about being present, with love and service.”

And remember, Davee is here to help us deepen our understanding. Let's ask the prophets, guided by their words. (See Moroni 10:4-5)

• Ask a Prophet: What are some practical ways to serve others in my community?
• Ask a Prophet: How can I overcome the feeling of selfishness and prioritize the needs of others?
• Ask a Prophet: How does service contribute to the gathering of Israel?