President Thomas S. Monson on seeking to serve one another

President Thomas S. Monson (b. August 21, 1927) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1963. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency with Presidents Benson, Hunter, and Hinckley until becoming Church president in 2008.

"This afternoon my thoughts have returned to a road made famous by a parable Jesus told. I speak of the road to Jericho....

"Each of us, in the journey through mortality, will travel his own Jericho Road. What will be your experience? What will be mine? Will I fail to notice him who has fallen among thieves and requires my help? Will you?

"Will I be one who sees the injured and hears his plea, yet crosses to the other side? Will you?

"Or will I be one who sees, who hears, who pauses, and who helps? Will you?

"Jesus provided our watchword, 'Go, and do thou likewise.' When we obey that declaration, there opens to our eternal view a vista of joy seldom equaled and never surpassed....

"My brothers and sisters, today there are hearts to gladden, there are deeds to be done—even precious souls to save. The sick, the weary, the hungry, the cold, the injured, the lonely, the aged, the wanderer—all cry out for our help.

"The road signs of life enticingly invite every traveler: This way to fame; this way to affluence; this way to popularity; this way to luxury. Pause at the crossroads before you continue your journey. Listen for that still, small voice which ever so gently beckons, 'Come, follow me. This way to Jericho.'

"May each of us follow Him along that Jericho Road."

- Thomas S. Monson, "Your Jericho Road," Ensign, May 1977, pp. 71-73
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President Monson has lived his life serving along the road to Jericho. This talk, given 40 years ago, echoes counsel from his heart and his example. His gentle invitation to us, to be more loving and serving to our neighbor, is a wonderful reminder.

We would all do well to consider how we are doing in our individual daily journeys along the Jericho road. Like President Monson, we should be always praying and listening for the promptings that will guide us to those whom we could help and assist along the way. Instead of heeding the many calls that would lure us to fame, affluence, popularity, and luxury, we might find another path that includes joy and blessing.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)