I often wondered: Who does God consider the one who loves Him most? Is it the person who prays earnestly in all things? The one who diligently studies the Bible? The one who glorifies God through good deeds? As I reflected on these questions and examined myself, I found the answer in a single passage:
Jesus said to Simon Peter, “. . . do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” . . . “Take care of my sheep.” . . . “Feed my sheep.” Jn 21:15–17
Three times, Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him, and each time, He gave the same instruction: If you love Me, then care for My flock above all else.
Just as a mother’s first question to her returning child is often, “Have you eaten?” our Heavenly Parents, too, place utmost importance on feeding the souls who wander without truth, so that they may receive the word of life and be saved. Through this passage, I came to feel the boundless love of our Heavenly Father and Mother, who are unwilling to give up on even a single soul. I will devote myself all the more earnestly to the work God values most: the saving of souls.