In his talk “Creating a Gospel-Sharing Home,” Elder M Russell Ballard talks about the blessings that the Restoration of the gospel have brought into our lives. He talks about the blessings of the Book of Mormon and the priesthood. Elder Ballard goes on to say as the truth and significance of these events sink into our hearts that we will want to share the gospel with others. He says:
“Similarly, our homes can be gospel-sharing homes as people we know and love come into our homes and experience the gospel firsthand in both word and action. We can share the gospel without holding a formal discussion. Our families can be our lesson, and the spirit that emanates from our homes can be our message.
“Having a gospel-sharing home will not only be a blessing for those we bring into our homes but for those who live within it. By living in a gospel-sharing home, our testimonies become stronger and our understanding of the gospel improves. The Doctrine and Covenants teaches that we can be forgiven of our sins when we help someone else repent (see D&C 62:3). We find joy in helping others come unto Christ and feel the redemptive power of His love (see D&C 18:14–16). Our families are blessed as the testimonies and faith of both parents and children increase.”
Elder Ballard talks about how the easiest way to share the gospel is to create a gospel-sharing home. Those with a gospel-sharing home naturally share the gospel with those around them as they go throughout their day. One characteristic of a gospel-sharing home is to pray daily for guidance. You should also pray for those around you. These include missionaries and people who are not members of the church.
Another characteristic of a gospel-sharing home is that the home feels welcoming. It is the home where the neighborhood children want to come and play. The environment is accepting and open, with the standards of the gospel being clearly seen throughout the home. It is one, which naturally invites friends to participate in church activities. It is through this example of including others in the gospel-centered life you lead that you are able to share the gospel. Elder Ballard went on to add that even if you do not have a family that you can still have a gospel-sharing home, by the way you conduct yourself and the way you choose to decorate your home.
Elder Ballard went on to had what a gospel-sharing home is not. He said that it is not a program of the church. It does not mean that you have to spend a lot of time looking for people to share the gospel with. These people will come naturally into your life. It should not be measured on how many people join the church as a result. It is more about sharing the gospel and letting them decide for themselves.
This is a wonderful talk. I think back to the homes I loved to visit and the feeling felt there. These homes were the ones, which would be considered gospel-sharing homes. I have always wanted to create this type of environment in my own home. I hope that you will take the time to read this wonderful talk.