Composed to be sung at my brother David’s mission farewell many years ago. While we no longer have specific meetings for that purpose, it is especially applicable for mission zone conferences and firesides. The trio arrangement was recently created and sung in a sacrament meeting when my grandson, Kaleb, spoke in preparation for his mission departure.
Love the People
by Ann Luke Bailey
As you go forth to preach the gospel *in a distant land,
To teach the word, you’re given many tools to use.
But perhaps the greatest instrument that’s placed within your reach
Is the one that we so often fail to choose:
Chorus 1: Love the people;
Let compassion fill your heart.
Love the people, and you’ll find the better part
Ev-‘ry person has the light of Christ, and though sometimes it’s dim,
They’ll embrace the fullness of God’s plan when love is shown to them,
So, love the peo-ple,
Serve as Am-mon long a-go.
Love the people, and together you will grow.
You soon will see that their humility will humble you.
Their love and compassion for your soul will make you weep.
And the faith of the believers brings forth miracles each day,
The kind that truly wake the hearts that sleep.
Chorus 1
You go to teach **a chosen nation
But by them you will be taught
You will bring home a wondrous treasure
From a people who have naught….
Chorus 2: Just love the people.
It’s the key to your success.
Love the people. Use your gifts to serve and bless.
As we follow Christ’s example, showing patience and respect
They’ll embrace the fullness of God’s plan of peace and happiness.
So love the peo-ple;
Serve as Am-mon long a-go.
Love the people, and together you will grow.
(alternate lyrics)
*unto all the world
**and gather Israel
