By Larry McGuire, president of seventy

There are additional sacred ministries that will spring forth from the Temple as rivers of living water to help people soothe and resolve the brokenness and pain in their lives. Let the Temple continue to come to life as a sacred center of worship, education, community building, and discipleship preparation for all ages.

We had been driving all morning, much of the time across the desert. It was hot and uncomfortable. Finally, we came to a town where we could stop for lunch and enjoy some time outside the car. Our family decided to eat in a restaurant rather than a fast-food place.

A server greeted us, led us to a booth, and took our orders for drinks. She quickly brought our water and other soft drinks and waited for our decisions on food. I asked about something on the menu, and she said, “Normally we would have that, but today is our last day. I just found out that we are closing today.” She put her head down, and tears began to fall.

Suddenly, our discomfort of driving and then trying to decide what to eat wasn’t as important as this woman before us.

I asked what closing would mean for her, and she said, “I don’t know, I’m going to have to find something else for work, but it’s a small town, already hard for jobs. Maybe I’ll have to move in with my mom, because I can’t afford to live in my apartment if I don’t have this job.”

More tears came, and then she said, “But that’s not your problem. Thank you for caring enough to ask.”

We gave her our order, and our family sat in silence, realizing the difficulty for our server and all those who depended on income from that business. Our food arrived, and as we ate, still in silence, I heard her tell another couple about the limited menu. They decided to go elsewhere. She just stood there, probably realizing the lost tips on top of wages was significant.

We finished our meal and got up to pay our bill and leave. As I was standing at the counter to pay, my wife went back to our table, pulled something from her purse, and slipped it under a plate. We walked out and got into our car.

Our server came rushing out, crying and saying thank you. Evidently, my wife had left a gift for our server. It wasn’t much, but, in that moment, it was everything to the one who received. Some left the restaurant wanting to be fed what they wanted, some left a gift so another might have a need met. We choose which one is our stewardship: our needs and status or the simple gift of what we can give so someone else is blessed.

Prayer Phrase

“And all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

Abundant Blessings

At the close of the day, reflect on where you noticed God’s blessings, especially in unexpected places. Offer a prayer of thanks and try to release any worry, trusting that God’s abundance will meet you again tomorrow.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.