Conversion: It's a Journey, Not a Destination (and How to Prepare for It)

Hey Rogue Disciples! It’s good to be connecting with you again. We’ve all felt that initial surge of conviction, that burning desire to serve, when we first committed to the work. That feeling is powerful, and it’s what fuels so much of what we do. But how often do we realize that the “conversion” we felt isn’t a finished product? It's a seed planted, and it needs constant tending, constant watering, constant pruning.

I was listening to a fantastic podcast episode recently—Bonnie Landry’s “Make Joy Normal”—and she beautifully articulated this very idea. It’s easy to get caught up in the checklist mentality: get baptized, serve a mission, attend church regularly. But true conversion isn't about ticking boxes; it's about a continual turning towards Christ, a constant refining of our character. As Bonnie says, it’s something that *happens* to us, but also something we actively *create*.

Think about your own MTC experience. It's intense, right? But it's not just about learning the language and the lessons. It’s about starting that process of becoming—of shedding old habits and embracing a new identity as a servant of the Lord. And that doesn’t stop when you get to the field. It’s a lifelong journey, a continual process of growth and refinement.

Bonnie’s discussion about Paul’s letters, particularly Colossians, really resonated with me. The idea of “priming the relationship” before delivering challenging truths is something we can apply to so many aspects of missionary work – and life in general! It's about building trust, demonstrating Christlike love, and then gently guiding others to see the truth for themselves. Think about those first discussions in the field. Are you rushing into the lessons, or are you taking the time to genuinely connect with investigators, to understand their perspective, and to build a relationship based on trust and empathy?

She also highlighted the crucial point that we don't always *feel* compassionate or kind. But we can *act* that way, and that action, in turn, can cultivate those feelings within us. That's a powerful reminder for those days in the mission when you’re feeling discouraged or overwhelmed. Even when you don’t *feel* like preaching, you can still preach. Even when you don’t *feel* like serving, you can still serve.

So, how does this apply to your preparation? It’s not just about memorizing scriptures or practicing your teaching skills. It's about cultivating that spirit of ongoing conversion within yourself. It’s about striving to be a better person, a more compassionate friend, a more loving disciple. It’s about embracing the messy, challenging, and ultimately rewarding process of becoming.

Here's a quick tip for all you pre-missionaries out there: Practice active listening. Really listen to what people are saying, not just waiting for your turn to speak. This skill will serve you incredibly well in missionary discussions, and it's a powerful way to show Christlike love. Davee helped me realize just how crucial this is—he’s been walking me through potential investigator objections and highlighting the importance of truly understanding where they're coming from.

And for those of you who are returned missionaries, remember the lessons you learned in the field. Remember the feeling of ongoing conversion. Share your experiences, mentor the next generation, and continue to be a beacon of light in a world that desperately needs it.

Let's continue this conversation! Join us for our next Disciple Challenge – a weekly opportunity to deepen your understanding of the scriptures and strengthen your commitment to the work. And if you’re looking for a deeper dive into scripture-discipleship, check out the Book Clubs and Bible Study Groups in HolyPlaces.