LDS Poems About Service: Inspiring Words of Selflessness

In the world of poetry, few themes capture the essence of the human spirit quite like acts of service. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), service is not just a noble gesture but an integral part of their faith. Through heartfelt verses, LDS poets beautifully express the transformative power of service, inspiring readers to follow the example of the Savior and extend a helping hand. In this article, we will explore a few remarkable LDS poems that celebrate the virtue of service.

1. "The Hands of Christ" by Joseph B. Wirthlin

"The Hands of Christ" is a touching poem penned by Joseph B. Wirthlin, an esteemed leader of the LDS Church. This poignant piece illustrates the significance of Christ's hands as a symbol of selfless service.

With tenderest touch, He reached out to the sick, the blind, and the lame.
He caused the deaf to hear, the dumb to speak, the dead to rise again.
He had compassion upon the hungry and the thirsty.
He healed the leper, restored the maimed, and caused the lame to walk.

Through vivid imagery and powerful words, Wirthlin's poem reminds readers of the divine love and compassion that motivate acts of service.

2. "The King and the Beggar" by Carol Lynn Pearson

In her moving poem, "The King and the Beggar," Carol Lynn Pearson weaves a tale that challenges our perceptions of worth and encourages us to serve others unconditionally.

And in the dark of night, the king
Slipped out of his castle to a poor and humble door
And knocked with tender care.
"Who's there?" a voice inside inquired.
"A beggar," said the king, "with gifts for you."
At that the door swung wide, and there
Stood the king.
And the beggar saw the king and said,
"Come in"
And falling on his knees said,
"Your majesty, why are you dressed so poorly, and
Why do you knock upon my humble door?
Enter as the king you are."
And the king smiled and
Entered as the king he was.

Pearson's poem beautifully illustrates that true service transcends societal roles and reminds us that we are all alike in our need for love and compassion.

3. "The Parable of the Good Samaritan" by Orson F. Whitney

Orson F. Whitney, a prominent LDS poet and leader, masterfully retells the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan in his stirring poem. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to others in times of need, regardless of their background.

And the priest and the Levite who passed him by
In purple and fine linen arrayed,
And the lawyer who questioned the Lord that day
Concerning the debt he owed,
What are they now but the figures of speech
And the symbols of a dream?
While the Good Samaritan in the Temple stands
And tells his story anew,
And the world has listened and wondered and wept
For the love of the Lord who gave
To its children the blessed command to go
And do as the stranger did.

Whitney's poem serves as a timeless reminder of the Savior's teachings on loving our neighbors and offering aid to those who may be different from us.

LDS poets have a remarkable ability to capture the essence of service through their heartfelt words. These examples of moving poems by Joseph B. Wirthlin, Carol Lynn Pearson, and Orson F. Whitney demonstrate the power of service in both the temporal and spiritual realms. As readers, we are reminded of the selflessness and compassion that lie at the heart of service, encouraging us to follow in the footsteps of the Savior and make a positive impact in the lives of others. Let these poems inspire you to seek opportunities for service in your own life and experience the indescribable joy that comes from lending a helping hand.