A Seed in the Soil: Pioneering Faith in Malaysia

Brothers and Sisters, have you ever felt the weight of a wall before you? Samuel the Lamanite, atop the walls of Zarahemla, felt it. Ammon, at the Waters of Sebus, felt it. They knew the moment of truth was at hand, that the difference between destruction and deliverance hinged on a single, courageous act.

Sometimes, the walls aren’t stone and mortar. Sometimes, they're woven from cultural norms, legal frameworks, and the deeply-held beliefs of a people. That’s the reality faced by Latter-day Saints pioneering the gospel in places like Malaysia, a nation where Islam is enshrined in the constitution and embraces the entire Malay and indigenous population.

I recently listened to a profoundly inspiring episode of For All The Saints, featuring Joseph Skipps, a counselor in the Kuala Lumpur district presidency. His account of the Church’s growth in Malaysia, particularly the pivotal moments leading to its official registration and dedicatory prayer, is a testament to the power of quiet discipleship and the miracles that attend those who serve with humility and love.

Joseph’s story isn’t one of aggressive proselyting. It's a story of doing good. The Church isn’t there to convert; it's there to alleviate suffering, offer assistance, and simply be a reflection of Christ's love. This approach, combined with a deep respect for the local culture and the beliefs of others, has fostered a remarkable level of trust and understanding.

Think of Abinadi, standing before King Noah and the priests of Midian, not with threats or demands, but with a message of truth and a willingness to face the consequences. The gospel, as Joseph demonstrates, isn't about imposing a system; it’s about planting a seed, nurturing it with acts of kindness, and allowing it to grow organically.

Consider the logistics of ministering across 150,000 square kilometers with a membership of over 2,200. It requires ingenuity, resourcefulness, and a dedication that transcends geographical barriers. The use of video conferencing, combined with face-to-face visits – “food, fun, and faith” as Joseph calls it – speaks to the Church’s commitment to connection and community.

The story of dinner with the future Agong (Supreme King) of Malaysia, a chance encounter that ultimately paved the way for official registration, is almost too incredible to believe. It's a reminder that the Lord works in mysterious ways, often using seemingly insignificant moments to accomplish His purposes. And that dedicatory prayer, adjusted in real-time to acknowledge the nation's rotating monarch system, speaks to a humility and adaptability that is essential for effective missionary work.

What’s most striking is the consistency with which Joseph recounts these experiences. He doesn't boast or exaggerate; he simply shares the facts, allowing the miraculous nature of the events to speak for themselves. He noted that during a visit from Elder Wu, a counselor from the Asia-Pacific area, the Church was mentioned 25 times – a testament to the growing recognition of the Church’s positive impact.

We, as Builders, are called to emulate this spirit – to be the digital striplings, armed with five smooth stones of faith, courage, and service. To be the ones who build bridges, not walls. To be the ones who offer a hand up, not a condemnation. To recognize that the Kingdom isn't built with grand pronouncements, but with quiet acts of love and dedication.

As you engage here, remember that your contributions fund gospel advertising in places like Ghana, expanding the reach of this message of hope and salvation. Support the Missionary Fund, and use the GatherIsrael.now map to identify Churches and individuals who are ready to join the gathering. Let us follow the example of Joseph Skipps, and be steadfast in our commitment to building the Lord’s Kingdom, one act of service at a time.