What is true happiness? Is it money? Is it fame? Is it traveling the world? To me these things can bring happiness for a brief moment. They will be enjoyed in time, but God is timeless and eternal, how do we find a happiness that will endure as long as our souls do? Does an eternal happiness exist? Yes, the Gospel of Jesus Christ will provide “an anchor to the soul.” (Heb 6:19) The Gospel isn’t in the lives of every one so how can the Gospel deprived people find an equivalent? There is a principle that is the core teaching of Jesus Christ. He emulated this everyday, we also are able to participate in Christ like service.
“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” Acts 10:38
I will attest to the happiness that service brings. Service big or small will bring a personal strengthening and enlightening every time. I can’t find a happiness capable of filling my soul like that of service. I spent two years in a foreign country, Colombia to be specific. Every waking second was dedicated to the service of Gods children in that part of the world. If I could describe in words the joy I felt while I served, I would but I honestly cannot. There aren’t words that could do justice. Not only did the people I served-spiritually, temporally, physically, emotionally-benefit I did more so. Much to my surprise I was joyful not only because I was doing good, but I was doing what God smiled upon. This scripture sums what I am trying to say:
“And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.” -Mosiah 2:17
We are helping do what our Heavenly Father desires of us when we do good. I felt the veracity of this Book of Mormon scripture. I found many ways to serve among many some were, clean up, help on homework, teach the Gospel, wash dishes, smile at someone, give a compliment, share a scripture, or even the effort to offer help. It did so much for me to be alert of others needs at all times. Being the hands of God implies we need to reach out to those around us. It makes me so happy to see someone’s life a teeny tiny bit easier, from something I did. I am happy when I am at the service of others. I wish I could convey this with more power but I don’t know how else to say SERVICE=HAPPINESS. There are an abundance of opportunities, all I do is look! I believe that service is the best way for me to emulate a Christ-like life.
“Do you want to be happy? Forget yourself and get lost in this great cause. Lend your efforts to helping people…Stand higher, lift those with feeble knees, hold up the arms of those that hang down. Live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” -President Gordon B. Hinckley