The Great Measure of our Discipleship

February 1, 2010

When I began reading this talk I thought, “I know I have heard this before.” Then it struck me as I looked at the date and location it was given that I was present at this devotional 3 years ago. After digging into my memories I recalled that day so vividly. That talk had really moved me and made me look upon myself and how I treated others. I love how he was honest and straight-forward. I remember leaving with so many ideas in my head of how I could do better. Years later, I am so thankful for the reminder of this talk. After reading it I could see the gates opening in my head of how I am going to change and become better at how I view others.
The object I have selected as an example of a way we can view others is as a book. Many times we pick a book judging by its cover. If we don’t necessarily like what we see we will pass it on by until we find something that is more attractive and appealing to us. And most times the book that may be plain on the outside or dull looking will end up being a very good read where we had gained much knowledge and insight from, just as a person that we may have looked over due to their “outer cover.”
I like how he related perception to discipleship. Just as the many examples he gave of the apostles who had viewed someone as an ‘interruption’ or a check-list duty, the Savior has further reminded them that they are not to be viewed as that as he taught each disciple by example. I know the best way I learn is by watching another. Whether it is negative or positive, I learn and match my actions accordingly. I look up to the Savior and those like him for the good examples they set, especially when it comes to how we treat others, for I think that truly defines how we see ourselves and how well we know Christ.
There is a quote that I love that I think really hits the bottom root of how we view others. Sister Marjorie Pay Hinckley said, “We are His children, and if we ever got that through our heads thoroughly, understood that completely, we would never do a small thing, we would never say a cross word, we would not use bad language, we would not criticize anybody, we would love everyone the way the Savior loves us.” I read this quote at my aunt’s house on the bathroom mirror as I was washing my hands and it really hit me hard. It was so true. There was so much simplicity in it. How we treat others is not only a reflection of ourselves but also shows our level of understanding who we are. I made it a challenge and personal goal to strive harder to see each individual’s person worth. I noticed that the more optimistic I was and the harder I tried to see the good in people and love them for who they were, not only was I in turn, happier, but it also became easier! Just as the scripture says that, “will I make weak things become strong unto you.” I gained such a testimony about loving everyone and lifting others up. I have not been perfect at this concept that is for sure. It is still a work in progress and oftentimes I have to remind myself to clear out the negative thoughts I have about someone. I do however, know how good I feel when I keep my goal and make an effort. The small things really do make all the difference. And many times it is the small things that matter most, just as he said when he told the story of Lisa and the boy who saved the chair for his friend.
I am thankful that I was able to re read this talk and have a greater desire to start anew and make changes in the way I view others. It is a privilege to be able to call oneself a disciple of Christ and I want to take every advantage I can to live up to it!