I, just like you, have rendered to “Caesar what is Caesar’s”, but until one serves without regulations or law, do we render our hearts to the Savior’s admonition “…everything which invites to serve God is inspired of God.” August 20th is a call to saints in Africa for a day of service to our communities. It is called All Africa Service Day. All saints in Africa have been called by our prophet to commit that day to a service project that will improve and enlighten the community they live. This is a huge undertaking for this people- where should we start? The call was felt to our hearts and we will witness the blessings of service this coming Saturday. There are 5 branches in this region, each with challenges you have ever witnessed before in your life; some of the environment, some of the traditions of their fathers, and some of government making. Yet not a word was heard of complaint, contention, or discouragement from the body of the saints when this was announced. “The world has need of willing men, who wear the worker’s seal. Come help the good work move along; put your shoulder to the wheel” is the anthem to our march.
There will be some that will paint jail cells, others that will clean gutters along the roads of the villages, and even others that will clean village medical centers. There is one branch that will fill potholes of the road that precedes their village and another that will clean the only play field in the village. With small square nose shovels, wooden rakes, handmade broom bristles, make shift paint brushes, plastic sacks, machetes, and large aluminum bowls on their heads, they will walk some 3 to 4 Km., many barefoot, and others with baby on her back, to heed the call of a prophet and serve their fellowman with brotherly kindness. They are lovers of God and his will to do good to all sons and daughters of Father. The monetary value of some 300 saints preforming these kinds of labors is un-measurable, but the heartfelt joy and satisfaction of doing what is right, truly is priceless.
This is not unique to Africa for the prophet of us all has beaconed us to set our sights upon service to our fellowmen during this month. I hesitate to mention one such act of kindness and call to service, for it is tender to our hearts, but with eyes swollen with tears, I will share this joy. There are those that seek fame and fortune for service rendered. They have received their reward. Others are under the shadows of Fathers infinite love for all mankind. They have carried the service kindness of Him, to children who will know them not. 10,000 Kilometers away, faithful saints have harkened to the same prophet’s voice. They know little of the life that exist in the bush; they will probably never visit this region or see the results of their service offering, but Sister Dalton and I will ever be changed to grace these precious children with the earned gifts sent with love from 10,000 Kilometers away.
“..thus saith the Lord, I delight to honor those who serve my children…” it rings in our ears as we feel the charity of our ward brothers and sisters we love at home. We know “ye will stand blameless before the Lord” for this simple, loving, act of service few but angels will know or will witness.
We love you all- Elder & Sister Dalton
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