Never let the great powers of the priesthood lie dormant. To exercise these powers, priesthood holders must be clean in thought and action. Bearers can safeguard this same power by acting under the direction of those who hold the keys of the priesthood.
Caring for others is the essence of priesthood responsibility. President Faust said he learned this principle as a junior home teaching companion, adding that the duty of home teachers often goes beyond a once-a-month visit.
"They need to be caring and willing to serve as the need arises."
He told a story about a Robert Jex, who was blessed as a youth to home-teach an elderly, shut-in woman who was touched by a message he offered, despite his young age and a case of nerves. At her request, he prayed for her health and strength.
Years later, Jex still thinks of the frail woman's willingness to call upon the powers of heaven through her home teachers.