10. My Brother’s Father

From Sabbath’s service I sought rest,
And in my slumber found my ease.
But Spirit spoke within my breast:
“Arise, and hear unspoken pleas.
Thy brother's father needs God's care,
As comfort from this world's cold heart.
The Lord will speak, if thou wilt hear.
 For love's kind fire, set thy spark."

You know me not. We’ve never met.
But I’ve been blessed to know your son.
And at his side, I can’t forget,
The peace and joy that we have won.
Upon our streets, upon his knees,
He gave his best to serve the Lord.
He’s labored well, our God to please,
Not seeking honor or reward.

But his kind Master knows his dream,
And bids me write to you for Him
With care and kindness, for He means
These trembling hands to serve his kin.
And while I fear I am too weak,
I am too vain, I have no sight.
With hope I kneel before His feet,
And ask He bless you with His might.

Despite my folly and my fears,
This much I KNOW, HE LIVES TO LOVE,
And those who strive to do His will
Shall live in peace with Him above.
That you will join our search for grace,
The Spirit bids me send these words,
If, with your son, you’d see God’s face,
Recall the message you once heard:

Remember the mission and power of Jesus,
He knocks at your door and He waits for you there.
Reach out for the love of your Father in Heaven,
Who holds precious blessings awaiting your prayer.
Rejoice in the Spirit, whose infinite power,
Can touch you and teach you to follow the Son.
Return to the faith that within you once flowered,
Return to your Savior, that you may be one.

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Context

A missionary from the East who had worked very hard for months in my home ward once spoke to me of his hope of reactivating his father. Although that man had not entered a church house for many years, he did support his son in the faith which he, himself, had abandoned. The day this Elder was to be transferred, I received the words set out above.  The consequences of this modest act will remain unknown in mortality.  We cast our bread upon the Waters of the Lord, praying that the few crumbs we send will nourish and save others beyond our sight.