By John Glaser, president of seventy

So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.

One of the first missionaries to Mexico, Vernon Petersen, or Hermano Ben, inspired us with his passion. For those who followed Ben’s path, we learned that passion included a long and burdensome journey. We, too, ponder, “How do we cultivate this perseverance in the face of fatigue?”

As Ben demonstrated, the answer lies not in individual strength but in the supportive embrace of the Christian community. Ben was a Spanish language translator endowed with the prophetic gift. During an episode of missionary despair, he translated a beloved hymn, “Come Ye Yourselves Apart and Rest a While.” His Spanish translation is more spiritual, beautiful, and poetically profound than the original. It conveys Paul’s call to be gentle restorers and guide the straying disciple through the spirit of Christ’s gentleness.

Ben’s translation portrays Jesus gathering his wounded disciples without harsh judgment, offering a warm embrace and a listening ear. We have inherited this hymn from Paul’s tradition so we may work together to lift each other up and back onto the path as trusted companions. We are to offer encouragement, practical help, and a sense of solidarity. It’s the law of Christ—a law of love, compassion, and mutual support.

A missionary like Ben Peterson never had to worry about his accomplishments or judge others. His prophetic quality was in his introspection, constantly testing his work, even to his detriment. He was an authentic witness and testified beyond empty motions. Singing of Christ’s presence means the avoidance of pride and judgment. Singing Christ’s presence is to persevere. Our efforts, big or small, by self or posterity, will someday lead to the harvest of souls, but it requires this inherited commitment.

We draw strength; we are not alone. We are part of an inherited Christian community, a network of support that helps us weather the storms and celebrate the victories in song and deed. We thank Ben for allowing us to sing of Christ’s presence so we can persevere and overcome our weariness.

Prayer Phrase

“Do not be afraid, for I am your God…” (Isaiah 41:10).

Voices of God

What is the voice of God saying to us? Do we hear the whispers of God’s longing for shalom; God’s dream of beauty and wholeness for all creation? Do we hear the “voice” of God calling to us in faces and eyes, in the sounds of suffering and joy, in scripture and sacred word, in tears and laughter, in silence and noise? Spend a few moments reflecting on when and how God’s voice speaks to you. When did you first feel called to join God in the pursuit of peace and justice? How does the call of shalom continue to come to you through the many “voices” of God?

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.