Ministering is truly loving and caring for others as the Savior would. It is a way of being; it is the way of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

How do we view ministering? When we approach this sacred assignment, are we simply checking off a task on our to-do list? Do we juggle it in our already packed schedules, overwhelmed and overloaded, perhaps even a bit overstimulated? Sister Kristin M. Yee encourages us to reframe our understanding of ministering—an understanding that emphasizes fulfilling our covenants. She beautifully illustrates that ministering is not just an obligation to fulfill, but a profound opportunity to invite the Spirit into our lives and create a sacred space. It’s about edifying, encouraging, and healing those who might have lost hope or are struggling to exercise their faith.

Sister Yee shares a touching story about her father—a man who didn’t need elaborate lectures, programs, or perfectly crafted plans to feel the warmth of fellowship. All it took were two faithful servants of God who consistently showed up, embodying the love, light, and truth of our Heavenly Father. Week after week, year after year, they stood by him, guiding him to the temple. There were no grand gestures, no fanfare—just simple, covenant love in action. It was through this quiet, consistent effort that her father began to experience God’s presence and, in turn, rediscovered the love of the Father. He found within himself the capacity to love again, leading him to a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life.

This is the essence of ministering that transforms individuals, strengthens families, rescues souls, and rewrites personal stories for the better.

Let’s take a moment to reflect: Have you ever felt unsure, unqualified, or awkward about ministering? While pondering this, consider another question: Have you ever felt uncertain, unqualified, or awkward about being ministered to? This message resonates deeply with me, and I hope it speaks to you as well.

Sister Yee addresses each of us directly, acknowledging that many of us may feel this way at times. She testifies that the Savior steps in to fill those gaps in our lives. He magnifies our smallest efforts, turning our simple presence into sacred moments of healing, restoration, and forgiveness. Through this, He invites the Spirit to embrace us, allowing us to feel His immense love as we share it with others.

Remember, this journey is not about achieving perfection; it’s about embracing genuine and faithful discipleship. It’s about stewardship—showing up with Christ and allowing Him to work through us, doing what only He can do.

A Message That Begins With a Story of Redemption

Sister Yee roots her message in something deeply human: the transformation of her father. His change didn’t begin with a program, a checklist, or a perfectly executed plan. Instead, it began with the simple, yet profound, actions of two ministering brothers who committed to showing up in his life.

Bless this ministering couple for helping my dad. They didn’t judge him for where he was in his life. They walked with him and helped him to develop his relationship with God. They are still my father’s closest and dearest friends.

Because these humble and devoted disciples of the Savior quietly ministered to a seemingly lost and dejected man, my family and I have been eternally blessed.

• They didn’t judge him.
• They didn’t fix him.
• They walked with him, step by step, through the many ups and downs of life.

For three years, they dedicated themselves to driving him to the temple — quietly, consistently, and in covenantal relationship. Their unwavering presence became a source of strength and support for her father. It was in the routine of those trips that he found solace and connection, not just to the temple but to something greater than himself.

In that steady companionship, her father rediscovered God, his identity, and his capacity to love. He learned that change doesn’t always occur through grand gestures or dramatic interventions; sometimes, it flourishes in the gentle presence of those who care enough to truly be there for you.

When we choose to minister in our inspired assignments and our daily interactions, we are helping to bless someone’s father, someone’s sister, someone’s son. When we minister, we are helping to answer each other’s prayers. We are the Savior’s hands. Oh, how I am grateful for all those who have blessed families like mine by ministering with compassion.

This is ministering in its purest form: presence over performance. It is the understanding that walking alongside someone in their struggles, offering empathy and companionship, can ignite profound transformation. It highlights the importance of community and the impact of simple, consistent acts of kindness. The brothers’ commitment exemplifies how relationships built on trust and love can guide individuals towards healing and rediscovery, creating a ripple effect of positivity and growth that extends far beyond initial intentions.

Ministering Is Not an Assignment — It’s a Covenant Identity

Sister Yee teaches that ministering is not something we are “called to” or “released from.”

“bear one another’s burdens” and “mourn with those that mourn.” (Mosiah 18:8-10)

It is woven into the covenants we made at baptism and in the temple, deeply embedded in our spiritual journey and commitment.

We are not called to or released from ministering. It is part of fulfilling the covenants we made at baptism and in the temple. We covenanted to take upon us the Savior’s name becoming as He is as we sacrifice and consecrate our lives to Him. When we minister as He would, we begin to think, feel, and love as He would.

When we minister, we are not simply checking a box or fulfilling an obligation. Instead, we are engaging in a transformative process — we are becoming something far greater than ourselves — we are becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, actions, and intentions.

Ministering is truly loving and caring for others as the Savior would. It is a way of being; it is the way of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is not a program or a checklist; ministering is the essence of who God is and who we can become as we follow Him.

She reminds us that ministering is fundamentally:

• A way of being: It becomes an integral part of our daily lives, influencing the way we interact with others and navigate our relationships.
• The essence of who God is: Through ministering, we reflect divine attributes such as love, compassion, and kindness, showcasing the very nature of our Heavenly Father and His expectations of us.
• The pattern of heaven: In the heavenly realm, serving and uplifting one another is the norm. By following this model here on earth, we align ourselves with heavenly principles and the ultimate goal of our existence.
• The path to becoming as He is: As we actively participate in the lives of others through service and support, we gradually shape our character to mirror that of Christ. Each act of ministering helps refine our souls and leads us closer to our divine potential.

This reframing of ministering shifts our perspective from viewing it as merely a duty to embracing it as a vital aspect of our discipleship identity. It encourages us to approach our interactions with genuine love and the intention to inspire growth, not only in others but also within ourselves as we walk the path of discipleship together.

Ministering Is the Savior’s Pattern — One by One

Throughout His mortal ministry, Jesus Christ ministered to “the one.” He saw individuals, each with their unique struggles and triumphs. He knew their stories, understanding their hopes and fears, their pain and joy.

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

In this personal engagement, He healed, lifted, and loved in a way that transcended mere words; His compassion was tangible and deeply impactful.

Our Father in Heaven carries out His eternal work by ministering to the individual needs of His children one by one. The Savior showed us this pattern often during His mortal ministry as He compassionately blessed, healed, and cared for “the one.” He invites us to do likewise—to minister in individual and personal ways, ways that help us to feel the love of God. When we feel loved and seen by Him, it changes everything. And when we bless the one, we bless the whole.

Sister Yee emphasizes that when we minister, we are participating in the very work of God — answering prayers, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees.

“For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39)

Each act of kindness, each moment of listening, and every gesture of support helps people feel seen by heaven. This sacred responsibility is not just a duty but a profound privilege that allows us to touch the lives of those around us.

We’ve been sent here to learn to love God and each other as the Savior did—to love in sacrificial and transformational ways, ways that will bring our greatest happiness. Through the Savior’s Atonement we can come to love in ways that may feel impossible. Elder Quentin L. Cook taught, “Our love of God and our fellow man is the ultimate test of the condition of our spirit.”

When we strive to minister to “the one,” we follow the example of Christ. We take the time to hear their stories, to be present in their moments of despair, and to celebrate their victories, no matter how small. Our actions serve to remind them that they are not alone and that their struggles do not define their worth.

And when someone feels seen by God, everything changes. It ignites a sense of hope, a renewed spirit, and a profound sense of belonging. This divine recognition can transform lives, helping individuals to see themselves as God sees them — worthy of love, capable of growth, and deserving of peace. In this way, our ministry becomes a powerful vehicle for healing, connection, and ultimately, transformation in the lives of those we serve. When we minister, we reflect the love of God, sparking a ripple effect that can lead to lasting change in our communities and beyond.

Ministering Requires Faith, Vulnerability, and Sacrifice

She acknowledges the real fear many feel:

• “What if I don’t know what to say?”
• “What if I’m awkward?”
• “What if I’m rejected?”

Her answer comes through the young sister she interviewed, who expressed a common concern that resonates with so many:

A young sister shared that she often feels nervous about ministering because she doesn’t know how others will respond. I asked how she works through that. She smiled and said, “I go—and it usually turns out much better than I thought.” She exercises faith, and the Lord helps her.

This simple yet profound realization reflects a journey of courage and faith. Ministering, at its core, is not merely about the words we speak or the actions we take; it’s about the heart and intention behind our efforts. It’s an act of faith that invites us to step outside our comfort zones, embracing vulnerability with the understanding that it is often in these moments of uncertainty that we truly grow.

When we take that step to reach out, we are not alone. As we go, the Lord goes with us, guiding our hearts and strengthening our resolve. He understands our fears and insecurities, and it is through these challenges that we can develop a deeper trust in His plans for us.

He provides the means for us to connect with others, offering the right words or the gentle reassurance needed in moments of doubt. He provides the timing, orchestrating encounters that may seem coincidental but are, in fact, divinely arranged. He provides the power, empowering us to rise above our self-doubt and apprehensions, enabling us to be vessels of His love and grace.

As we minister in faith, we do not go alone. The Lord will be with us. He will “provide [the] means whereby [we] can accomplish the thing which he has commanded”—including the blessing of God’s priesthood power as we keep our covenants and His priesthood authority to represent Him through our assignment. The Lord knows the hearts of those we minister to. He loves them and He loves you. He will help you to bless them in the ways they need.

In this journey of ministering, we learn that it’s okay to feel anxious or uncertain. What matters is our willingness to go, to engage, and to trust that the outcomes will often exceed our expectations. With each step we take, we not only bless the lives of others but also deepen our own faith and understanding of the Lord’s presence in our lives.

Ministering Invites the Savior’s Healing Into Our Lives

One of the most profound insight in her message is this:

If you want to feel grounded, gain a sense of divine belonging, and make a real difference in the world, I invite you to follow the Savior and minister in His name. Never was the need greater than now for souls to be lifted, strengthened, and healed through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. “So many of us desperately need to feel of His love.” As His disciples, you and I have the covenant blessing and responsibility to bring the Savior’s love and relief to all of God’s children. When we offer His love and belonging to others, we will find it ourselves. The Savior promised, “Whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.”

This encapsulates a deep truth about the nature of service and the transformative power of ministering to others. Ministering is not just a duty or an act of charity; it is a profound journey that leads us toward healing, clarity, and a greater sense of purpose. When we dedicate our time and efforts to uplifting others, we often discover that we inadvertently uplift ourselves.

This relationship between service and personal growth reveals that the act of ministering can serve as a mirror, reflecting our own needs and aspirations. As we give of ourselves to help those in need, we may confront our own struggles, leading to moments of clarity and insight that guide us on our individual paths.

This selfless dedication enables us to lose ourselves in His work, and in doing so, we find ourselves enveloped in His love. It is in those moments of self-forgetfulness — when our focus shifts away from our own challenges and toward the needs of others — that we often encounter a profound sense of connection and belonging. Through actively engaging in service, we nurture our spirit, cultivate empathy, and foster relationships that enrich our lives, ultimately drawing us closer to a divine love that is both healing and transformative.

In essence, ministering not only blesses those whom we serve but also becomes a sacred pathway to our own personal and spiritual discovery, creating a cycle of love, purpose, and renewal.

Ministering Is the Way of Heaven

Sister Yee beautifully testifies that ministering “brings forth the blessings of heaven” because it embodies the very essence of the heavenly way. Indeed, when we engage in acts of ministering, we open ourselves to a transformative experience that extends beyond ourselves and touches the lives of others.

When we minister, we experience a deep sense of divine belonging. This connection to others strengthens our faith and solidifies our place within a community that is grounded in love and support. Each act of kindness, each moment spent in service, reaffirms our identity as part of a greater family, bound by shared values and beliefs.

“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25)

Furthermore, we cultivate and experience joy through the gentle act of service. There is an innate happiness that comes from giving selflessly. Each smile we receive, each grateful word we hear, amplifies the joy within us, creating a cycle of positivity and encouragement. Joy becomes not just an emotion but a profound state of being that nourishes our spirit.

As we reach out to others, we also learn to grow in Christlike love. Our understanding of love shifts from a mere feeling to a committed action. In loving others, we reflect the light of Christ and embody His teachings. This growth fosters deeper relationships and cultivates empathy, allowing us to see the world through compassionate eyes.

We become instruments in God’s hands. When we act in service, we allow ourselves to be conduits of divine grace. Our gestures, however small, can lead to significant changes in the lives of those around us. Like tools in a craftsman’s shed, we each have distinct purposes that contribute to the beautiful tapestry of God’s work in the world.

Through ministering, we also discover who we are in Him. In moments of service, we often find clarity about our gifts and talents. As we engage with others, we unveil layers of ourselves that may have remained hidden, revealing the unique purpose that God has woven into our being. This journey of self-discovery is fundamental in realizing our potential and our place within the divine plan.

In a world that so desperately aches for connection, compassion, and covenantal love, Sister Yee’s reminder resonates profoundly: “Never was the need greater than now.” Today, more than ever, we are called to step outside of our comfort zones and reach out to those around us. There is a profound longing within hearts, seeking connection, understanding, and the reassurance that they are not alone. In ministering, we not only fulfill this need; we also become agents of change, healing, and hope in a fractured world. Each act of kindness echoes in eternity, leaving an indelible mark on both the giver and the recipient.

A Reflection for Today

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are invited to minister in ways that encompass various dimensions of our faith and commitment. This invitation to serve is not merely a task but a profound calling that reflects the heart of our relationship with Him and with others.

Quiet: In our ministry, it is essential to approach others with a quiet humility, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our interactions. This quietness is not about being voiceless but rather about listening deeply and responding with care.

Steady: Our commitment to ministry should be steady, marked by consistency in our actions and presence. This steadiness builds trust and creates a reliable foundation for those we seek to serve, reflecting the unwavering love of Christ in our lives.

Personal: Ministry thrives in personal connections. We are called to engage with individuals on a personal level, recognizing that every interaction is an opportunity to show the love of Christ. This personal touch can create profound impacts.

Spirit-led: It is vital that our ministry be Spirit-led, seeking divine guidance in our decisions and actions. This reliance on the Holy Spirit allows us to move beyond our own understanding and to touch the lives of others in ways that truly reflect God’s will.

Sacrificial: Sacrificial love is at the core of our calling. We must be willing to put the needs of others before our own, demonstrating the same selfless love that Jesus showed. This sacrifice might come in various forms, whether it be time, resources, or emotional energy.

Transformational: The goal of our ministry is transformational — not just for those we minister to, but for ourselves as well. As we engage in these acts of service, we allow God to work within us, reshaping our hearts and minds to align more closely with His.

We don’t need to fix people; instead, we are called to enter into their lives with grace and compassion. We don’t need to have the perfect words; what matters is the authenticity we bring to our relationships. We simply need to show up with Him, ready to be His hands and feet in a world that is searching for hope and healing.

Because when we bless the one, we bless the whole. Every interaction, every act of love and kindness ripples outward, impacting not just the individual but their community and beyond. By living out these principles, we not only honor our commitment as disciples but also participate in the greater work of God’s kingdom.

Summary and Reflection

Sister Yee’s message calls us back to the heart of discipleship: loving as Christ loves. In a world full of noise, ministering is the quiet revolution of the covenant people — a way of living that heals families, strengthens communities, and reveals the character of Christ in us.

In this fast-paced society, it is easy to become distracted and lose sight of our purpose. However, when we focus on ministering to others, we contribute to a greater good that transcends our daily challenges and personal struggles. This commitment to service not only nurtures our spirit but reinforces the bonds we share within our communities. Each act of kindness becomes a testament to the love of Christ, illuminating the path for others who may be seeking solace and support.

As we walk with others, He walks with us, guiding our steps and providing strength in our endeavors. Each interaction becomes an opportunity for us to embody Christ’s love, offering compassion and understanding to those around us. As we lift others, He lifts us, creating a cycle of grace and encouragement that enhances our lives and the lives of those we serve.

When we minister in His name, we become more like Him; we deepen our understanding of His teachings and strengthen our resolve to live according to His example. In doing so, we foster a more profound connection to our faith and become agents of change, fostering environments where love, respect, and humility abound. The journey of discipleship becomes a shared experience, enriching our lives and the lives of others, ultimately leading us closer to Him and to one another.