Finding Stillness in the Field: Lessons from Mary and Martha

Hey everyone! It’s good to be here, sharing some thoughts with you all. It feels like just yesterday I was fresh out of the MTC, full of nervous energy and a burning desire to preach the gospel. Now, looking back, I see how much I didn’t know—and how much I still have to learn. One thing I've come to realize is that true effectiveness in the work isn’t always about *doing* more; sometimes it's about *being* more.

I was recently reminded of this in a powerful conversation I had while listening to the Faith Matters podcast with Thomas McConkie. He dives deep into the familiar story of Mary and Martha – a story we’ve all heard, but perhaps haven’t fully grasped. It’s so easy to identify with Martha, bustling around, feeling the weight of responsibility, and thinking we’re being productive. But Thomas beautifully unpacked the idea that Mary’s stillness at Jesus’ feet wasn’t a lack of service, but a source of it. She was drawing power and perspective from a deeper place.

Think about it. How often do we feel pressured to be constantly *doing* something – preparing lessons, tracting, contacting investigators – that we forget to just…breathe? To take a moment to connect with the Spirit, to listen, to be still?

This isn't about being passive, mind you. It's not about shirking our responsibilities. It’s about recognizing that true service flows from a place of peace and connection. It’s about remembering that we are already and completely loved, and that our worth isn't tied to our output.

As returned missionaries, we often hear about the importance of hard work and dedication. And those are vital, absolutely. But we also need to cultivate a space for grace, for compassion—especially for ourselves. We can get caught in a cycle of striving, feeling like we’re never quite measuring up. Thomas’s insight offers a powerful antidote: turn toward that feeling with kindness, and remember that transformation doesn't begin with self-improvement, but with recognition of our inherent worth.

I've found that even a few moments of mindful breathing, a short prayer, or simply pausing to appreciate the beauty around me can make a huge difference in my ability to serve. It’s about finding that “depth” Thomas talks about—that place of intuition and connection that allows us to respond to the needs of others with genuine love and understanding. It’s a practice, just like anything else in the work. And it’s one that can profoundly impact our missionary experience—and our lives beyond the field.

Whether you’re preparing to serve, deep in your mission, or simply striving to be a better Latter-day Saint, I encourage you to take a moment today to find your stillness. Listen to that inner voice. Recognize the love that surrounds you. It's a game-changer.

Speaking of game-changers, don’t forget to join us for our next Disciple Challenge! It’s a weekly opportunity to sharpen your skills and connect with other rogue disciples. And if you're feeling called to dive even deeper, check out the incredible resources available in LivingBook – especially the Iron Rod author readings. Davee’s been a huge help in walking members through some tough questions, too.

Until next time, keep striving, keep learning, and keep seeking that stillness.