The Book of Mormon defines charity as the pure love of Christ. In Moroni 7:47, we read:
"But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him."
Charity is eternal, enduring beyond mortal life and carrying into eternity. It is not limited to acts of service but includes how we view and treat others. It is seeing others as God sees them—with infinite worth and potential.
The Bible also highlights the significance of charity. In 1 Corinthians 13:13, the Apostle Paul declares:
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
Paul teaches that charity surpasses even faith and hope in its importance. Without charity, our spiritual efforts and sacrifices are empty, lacking the true essence of Christlike love.
From the Doctrine and Covenants, D&C 121:45 provides guidance for cultivating charity:
"Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God."
Charity is a foundational principle for priesthood holders and all members of the Church. It brings confidence, peace, and a closer relationship with God. It is through charity that we prepare ourselves to stand in His presence with full assurance of our worthiness.
Brigham Young, the second President of the Church, emphasized the importance of charity in building Zion and strengthening the Saints. He taught:
“Kindness, patience, and charity are the marks of the true Saint, and without these qualities, we cannot walk in the path Christ has shown.”
He also stated:
“To love one another with pure charity is to fulfill the greatest of all commandments. Let us practice charity, that Zion may flourish among us.”
Through kindness, patience, and selflessness, we demonstrate our discipleship and contribute to the establishment of Zion. Charity is not optional—it is central to living the gospel and fulfilling God’s commandments.
In Mosiah 2:17, King Benjamin teaches:
"When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."
This scripture emphasizes the relationship between charity and service. Serving others with a willing heart reflects our love for God and strengthens our commitment to His work. Every small act of kindness, whether seen or unseen, is a testament of our devotion to Him.
Christ’s teachings in the New Testament provide a perfect example of charity. In Matthew 22:39, the Savior teaches:
"Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."
This commandment captures the essence of charity—loving and treating others with the same care and respect we desire for ourselves. When we extend this love to others, we follow the Savior’s example and grow closer to Him.
The Doctrine and Covenants calls for charity within the Church and the broader community. In D&C 88:125, we are taught:
"And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace."
Charity is likened to a protective mantle that brings peace and unity. It strengthens families, wards, and communities, fostering an environment where all feel loved and valued.
Although the Pearl of Great Price does not directly use the term "charity," it emphasizes the principle through examples of love and service. In Moses 7:18, we learn about the people of Zion:
"And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them."
The unity of Zion was built upon charity, as it eliminated inequality and fostered mutual love and care. This serves as a powerful example for us as we strive to build Zion in our own lives and communities.
Two prominent Honduran philosophers, José Cecilio del Valle and Ramón Rosa, also provided profound insights into the principles of charity. José Cecilio del Valle, known as "El Sabio Valle," once wrote, "A society that lacks compassion and mutual aid will crumble, for it is in the union of hearts where strength lies." His words resonate with the teachings of Zion, emphasizing unity and love as the foundation of a prosperous society.
Ramón Rosa, another influential thinker, declared, "True greatness is found in serving others with humility and love, for only then does humanity reflect the divine." Rosa’s philosophy aligns beautifully with King Benjamin’s reminder that serving others is serving God. These Honduran thinkers offer universal truths that complement the doctrine of charity taught in the restored gospel.
Developing charity requires effort and divine help. Moroni 7:48 invites us to pray for this gift:
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ."
As we pray, serve, and strive to love others as Christ loves them, our hearts will be filled with charity. This transformation will not only bless those around us but will also prepare us to stand spotless before God in the last day.
Brigham Young’s counsel summarizes the essence of charity:
“Charity, in its fullness, is the expression of a godlike heart. It is the crowning principle of the gospel of salvation.”
As we seek to develop charity, let us remember the Savior’s perfect example. He healed the sick, forgave the sinner, and loved unconditionally. His life was a manifestation of pure charity, and His atoning sacrifice was the ultimate act of love.
By striving to emulate Christ, we can make charity the guiding principle in our lives. Whether through small acts of kindness, heartfelt service, or simply seeing others as God sees them, we can reflect the pure love of Christ and become instruments in His hands to bless His children.
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