In the book of Matthew, the Savior teaches that the greatest in the kingdom of God are those who humbly love and serve.
"But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant" (Matt. 23:11).
Who better to serve as an example of loving service than Christ himself? Even though He was the literal Prince of Peace, and son of the Everlasting Father, he did not allow status or pride to control his actions. He did not look down on the beggar or the sinner, but reached out to them and offered them peace, comfort, healing, and forgiveness. In further clarification to his teachings and example, he offered this warning...
"And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold" (Matt. 24:12).
Lack of love, or hatred, breeds iniquity and selfishness. How much better off would the world be with a little extra love? The Savior responded to the hypocritical pharisees, that their pride and boastfulness would not bring them acceptance from God. Rather, even leaders like them, or maybe even especially leaders like them, should serve and love those they teach. We can all think of that one manager or supervisor that no body likes because they are power hungry and condescending. We are much more likely to happily comply with the one who shows us equal respect and understanding. Love breeds love. Some might call it Karma. No matter how you say it, there is no disputing that when someone does something nice for you, you feel happier and then you have an increased desire to pay it forward to the next guy. In addition to putting us in a better mood, kindness creates a ripple effect. It doesnt matter if we serve our boss or our child. The act of service is the same.
Dieter F. Uchdorf once stated:
"The more I come to know my Heavenly Father, the more I see how He
inspires and leads His children. He is not angry, vengeful, or
retaliatory. His very purpose—His work and His glory—is to mentor us, exalt us, and lead us to His fulness."
(https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2017/04/perfect-love-casteth-out-fear?lang=eng).
Let us all try a little more to imitate the love of the Savior. Be a little more kind, more forgiving, more patient...less boastful, less arrogant, less angry. The world could sure use it.
