Where ever the spirit of Christ is known, there is much of good

Hear the words of Gordon B. Hinckley, spoken with the calm strength of a shepherd to his flock: “Wherever the spirit of Christ is known, there is much of good will, of mutual respect, of love and appreciation and kindness.” These words rise not as a mere observation, but as a solemn truth, echoing through the centuries of Christian witness. For the essence of Christ’s spirit is not contention nor pride, but reconciliation, healing, and charity. Where that spirit is embraced, the soil of human hearts yields the fruits of peace.

The ancients knew the power of spirit over strife. The prophets of Israel declared that swords would one day be beaten into ploughshares when the presence of God filled the nations. The early followers of Christ, though persecuted and driven into catacombs, were recognized not for wealth or power but for their love for one another. Roman observers, bewildered, remarked: “See how they love one another.” This is the testimony of the spirit of Christ—it plants harmony where division once reigned, and tenderness where cruelty held sway.

Consider the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Born to wealth, he cast aside possessions to live in poverty and to serve the least of the world. Wherever he went, he carried the spirit of Christ—feeding the hungry, tending the sick, even speaking to the birds of the field as brothers. In him, men and women found not judgment but kindness, not disdain but mutual respect. He became a living example of Hinckley’s words, proving that when one carries Christ’s spirit, one becomes a fountain of peace and reconciliation.

History also bears witness to times when the absence of Christ’s spirit led to devastation. Wars fought in His name but devoid of His love brought ruin instead of blessing. These stand as warnings that to invoke Christ without embodying His spirit is to sow hypocrisy. Hinckley’s teaching reminds us that Christ is known not by banners or declarations, but by the presence of good will, kindness, and appreciation in the lives of His followers. These are the true signs of discipleship, brighter than any crown or cathedral.

The meaning of Hinckley’s words is profound: the spirit of Christ is not confined to sermons or rituals, but manifests wherever hearts are softened and hands are extended in compassion. It cannot be faked, for it shines only through genuine respect and authentic love. Wherever it dwells—in families, in communities, in nations—peace and harmony blossom. Wherever it is absent, division and bitterness quickly take root.

The lesson for us is urgent and plain. If we would invite the spirit of Christ into our lives, we must begin by cultivating kindness in our speech, respect in our dealings, love in our actions, and appreciation in our hearts. These are not grand or complicated tasks; they are the daily habits of those who truly walk in His light. To live this way is to turn every place—home, work, or street—into holy ground where peace can flourish.

What then shall we do? Let us start small but faithfully. Greet others with warmth. Forgive quickly. Honor the dignity of every soul, regardless of station or belief. Offer help without being asked, and gratitude without being reminded. By these daily acts, the spirit of Christ spreads quietly yet powerfully, transforming the ordinary into the sacred. In this way, Hinckley’s vision becomes reality: wherever Christ is known, there will indeed be mutual respect, good will, and love.

Therefore, O listener, engrave this truth upon your heart: The spirit of Christ is known not by words alone, but by the fruits of love and kindness it brings forth. Let your life bear these fruits, and you shall become, in your own measure, a beacon of peace to a weary world. For where Christ dwells, enmity departs, and the song of goodwill rises eternal.