Relief Society Lesson - July 19, 2009

Chapter 37 - Charity, the Pure Love of Christ

Joseph Smith was truly an example of charity. His words, thoughts and deeds exemplified our Savior. He stated, "Love is one of the chief characteristics of Deity, and ought to be manifested by those who aspire to be the sons of God."

Joseph Smith reminds me a lot of King Benjamin. In Mosiah 2:14, King Benjamin states, "And even I, myself, have labored with mine own hands that I might serve you." Joseph was constantly in the service of his fellow men. One of the stories shared about him in the lesson was from his mother, Lucy Mack Smith. It was about the time when the Saints were first settling in Commerce, Illinois. She says, "As the season advanced, the brethren who had settled here began to feel the effects of their hardships, which, joined to the unhealthiness of the climate, brought them down with agues and bilious fevers to such an extent that there were some whole families in which there was not one who was able to give another a drink of cold water or even to help themselves. Hyrum's family were mostly sick. My youngest daughter, Lucy, was also very sick, and there were, in fact, but few of the inhabitants of the place who were well. Joseph and Emma had the sick brought to their house and took care of them there. And they continued to have them brought as fast as they were taken down until their house, which consisted of four rooms, was so crowded that they were under the necessity of spreading a tent in the yard for the reception of that part of the family who were still on their feet. Joseph and Emma devoted their whole time and attention to the care of the sick during this time of distress."

There were many responses in class from the sisters sharing experiences of others who had shown Christ-like love to them. How wonderful it is to be a part of Relief Society where we are given the opportunity to serve and become more like our Savior.

One last quote from Joseph Smith which says, "A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessing his family alone, but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race." Just as Lehi partook of the fruit, which was the love of God, and was desirous to share it, so can we.

Elisha Jones