The Call to Zion: Finding Strength When the Path is Broken

Sometimes, the greatest testament to faith isn't found in the soaring moments of triumph, but in the quiet, persistent refusal to stop moving when everything—literally and figuratively—is broken.

I was recently watching a video about John Rowe Moyle, and honestly, it hit me right in the chest. Hearing about his journey to the Salt Lake Temple, year after year, despite losing his leg in an accident, it was a profound reminder of what it means to be a disciple. It wasn't just about physical endurance; it was about the *will* to keep going for something greater than ourselves.

Think about that. He was injured, his mobility was severely limited, yet he kept going. Why? Because the calling—the vision of the temple, of Zion—was stronger than the pain, the fear, or the physical reality of his situation.

This really makes me think about our own journey here in the Church. We talk so much about 'missionary preparation'—the skills, the knowledge, the polished talks. And those things are vital! But what this story whispers to us, especially us rogue disciples who are learning to be missionaries right where we are, right now, is that the power source isn't our perfect articulation or our best prepared talk. It’s the unwavering conviction that the Lord has called us to a place, a people, or a task, and that we will find the strength to get there.

The Spirit is the Engine, Not Our Legs

The narrative shows his father, the stonemason, going back and forth between the temple site and the farm, day after day, even when the physical logistics seemed impossible. It wasn't just duty; it was a deep, ingrained commitment to the covenant path. He knew the Lord provides a way to accomplish what He asks.

As we continue to build Zion—whether that’s in a literal valley or in the digital space of the internet missionary—we will face our own 'injuries.' Maybe it's discouragement after a tough missionary discussion. Maybe it's feeling overwhelmed by the sheer scope of the work. Maybe it’s the exhaustion that makes you want to just sit down and quit.

When those moments hit, I encourage you to remember Moyle. Remember that the commitment to Christ, to the gospel, is what allows us to build those ingenious 'prosthetics'—the spiritual tools, the covenants, the support of our companions—that let us keep moving forward.

A Bite-Sized Mission-Prep Skill: Embracing the 'Broken'

If I could give one piece of missionary preparation advice today, it would be this: Don't wait until you feel 'whole' or 'perfect' to start sharing. The Spirit doesn't wait for us to be fully healed; He calls us into the brokenness. Be willing to be the person who shows up, even if you feel like you're limping a bit. That vulnerability is often where the deepest connection happens.

If you're feeling discouraged about your current efforts—maybe you feel like you've hit a plateau in your studies or your calling—don't let that stop you from showing up. Show up, like Moyle, and do the next necessary thing, trusting that the Lord will provide the way.

For those of you who are looking to deepen your doctrinal understanding, I highly recommend revisiting the teachings on the Plan of Salvation. If you haven't already, check out the latest Iron Rod insights on this topic available in LivingBook. It’s such a foundational piece for any disciple!

If you're feeling the pull to connect with others who are also wrestling with these big questions, I invite you to join our next virtual gathering. We'll be discussing the power of testimony in the face of doubt. Details are in the pinned post, but if you're new to this, don't hesitate to ask a question in the comments—we're all learning together!