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How the Lord Works Through Ministering
One memorable ministering experience taught me how the Lord works through His servants to bless His children. One day my companion and I set out to visit a brother in our ward. It was our second ministering visit of the day, and as we embarked on our journey, we encountered difficulties locating his home. Google Maps directed us to the wrong location, leaving us confused and unsure of where to go. Determined not to give up, we decided to call the brother to explain the situation. He kindly clarified that he did not live in the area where the map had directed us and proceeded to describe his actual location.
With his guidance, we got back into the car and continued our journey, hopeful that we would find his home. Thankfully, we arrived at the correct address. The brother warmly welcomed us into his home, and we felt great joy in meeting him and his family. After exchanging pleasantries, we asked if there was anything we could do for them or if there was something they would like to share with us. The brother opened up about a concern that had been troubling him. He explained that just the day before, he had felt very guilty about his situation and knew he needed to speak with someone from church who could help him. Our visit seemed to him like an answer to his prayers.
He went on to share his concern: he was not legally married to his wife. This revelation surprised us because, according to the information on the Church’s member tools, his record indicated that he was married. He clarified that this was a mistake, likely a mix-up from when he was interviewed by the missionaries prior to his baptism. He expressed feelings of guilt and a strong desire to correct the situation.
We offered words of counsel and encouragement, discussing the steps he could take to resolve his situation. We assured him of our support and reminded him of the blessings that come from doing what is right. With our encouragement, he determined to take the necessary steps to address his marital status in a way that aligned with God’s commandments.
Today, this brother and his wife are legally married, and they are preparing to be sealed as an eternal family in the temple.
Looking back on this experience, I am reminded of President Russell M. Nelson’s profound teaching:
“A hallmark of the Lord’s true and living Church will always be an organized, directed effort to minister to individual children of God and their families. Because it is His Church, we as His servants will minister to the one, just as He did. We will minister in His name, with His power and authority, and with His loving-kindness.”
I am deeply grateful for the ministering program of the Church, which allows us to reach out to individuals and families in meaningful ways. Through this experience I have come to see that ministering is more than just an assignment—it is an opportunity to follow the Savior’s example by lifting, comforting, and strengthening others. As I reached out with love and sincerity, I witnessed how the Lord magnified my efforts, allowing me to be an instrument in His hands.