Making decisions pertaining to actions that enable one to live a Christlike life was the topic of Elder Hans B. Ringger's Saturday afternoon address. The most important choice is choosing whom to serve, said Elder Ringger of the Seventy.

He said when he comes to a crossroad, he feels the need for some guiding principle or direction."Some of us probably struggle to find guiding principles, some sort of foundation on which to build, and others have designed the perfect plan but never find the motivation, time or courage to use it," Elder Ringger said.

"I believe that the foundation and guiding light for all our decisions is the gospel of Jesus Christ and His message to the world. The teachings of Christ must be embedded in our desire to choose the right and in our wish to find happiness. His righteous life must be reflected in our own actions. . . .

"Love is the essence of the gospel and the guiding light for a Christlike life," Elder Ringger said. "It not only teaches us to look upward but also to look around us. . . . It means we live the example of the good Samaritan who was free of prejudice and excuses, and therefore truly loved his neighbor."

Elder Ringger further said a Christian life demands decision and dedication. "It is a dedication that is free of fanaticism but full of understanding and love; it is a dedication that knows no selfishness but yet knows of our personal needs. It is a dedication that embraces all mankind and yet keeps an eye single to the Lord. And it is a dedication that brings joy but is seldom free of hardship, disappointment and discomfort."

He quoted Matthew 19:21, in which Christ told a young man to sell and give all he had to the poor, then follow Him.

"Christ speaks to all of us, not only to the young rich man who went away sorrowful," said Elder Ringger. "He commands us to give of our wealth, whatever it might be. For some it is material possessions, for others time or a talent. For those of us who have worldly riches, it does not mean that we cannot enjoy the commodities of life for which we work. But it means that we use them to do good and that we share them with those in need.

"I understand that the needs of this world can overwhelm us and that the injustices of life and the ills of society can paralyze us. But I believe that no good cause is in vain, and if we can only touch one life, the world is a better place. Choose your service today and choose it wisely. Prepare to help others.

"To love and care for others is a decision. It is the answer to the Lord's exhortation, `Come follow me.' "