The Gospel Continues: Finding the Living Story in Song

Brothers and sisters, sometimes the most profound truths—the kind that shape our very understanding of eternal life—are the ones that refuse to stay silent. They find a way to resonate, whether it's through a powerful talk in a meeting, a deep dive into the Book of Mormon, or, as we see today, a song.

I was listening to Phil Wickham’s rendition of "True Love" recently, and what struck me wasn't just the melody, but the narrative woven into the chords. It’s a beautiful, modern encapsulation of the Gospel narrative—a story that, frankly, never really ends.

When he sings about the Father giving His only Son, the story seems to reach a peak, a point of ultimate sacrifice. But then, right when you think the narrative is concluding with the cross, he pivots. He reminds us that the story doesn't just *end* there. It continues. It lives. It is relevant today.

This rings so true to my own experience as a returned missionary. You spend months studying the doctrine, memorizing the key points, and you feel like you’ve mastered the pitch. You think you know the narrative. But then you get back, you see the Spirit working in a new way in your local ward, or you're helping a newer disciple study scripture, and you realize the Gospel is less of a timeline and more of an ongoing river.

The Gospel is a Continuation

That bridge section in the song—the part that says, "Jesus is alive, Jesus is alive"—that’s the heart of our discipleship, isn't it? It’s the reminder that our covenants aren't just for the week we serve; they are for this life, and the next. It’s the understanding that the Atonement isn't just a historical event; it’s a present, accessible reality.

This is the essence of what we try to teach in our missionary discussions, and what we strive to live in our daily lives as rogue disciples. We aren't just reciting facts; we are testifying to a living, breathing power. We are called to be internet missionaries, yes, but more importantly, we are called to be disciples *anywhere*, all the time.

A Bite-Sized Skill for the Field: Embracing the Ongoing Narrative

If you’re feeling the weight of preparing for your own mission, or if you’re feeling the pull of the Spirit to share something with someone who is questioning, remember this: When you feel yourself getting stuck on the 'what happened' part of the Gospel, pivot to the 'what does it mean *now*' part. Focus on the resurrection power. Focus on the living Savior. That’s where the Spirit lifts the veil.

For those of us who are seasoned in the field, remember to pass that knowledge on. Don't let the insights you gained in MTC feel like they belong only to you. Share the notes, share the struggles, share the victories. That’s how we build up the next wave of disciples.

If you want to dig deeper into the foundational stories that anchor our faith, I highly recommend revisiting the materials on the Atonement within LivingBook. Sometimes, walking through the social scripture study layer, seeing how others have highlighted related passages, can give you a fresh perspective for your next study group.

This week, let’s commit to looking for the 'continuation' in our own lives. Where is the story of the Savior still unfolding for you? Is it in your family? In your calling? In your ability to be more Christlike when it’s inconvenient?

If you're looking for fellowship to discuss these deep truths, join a Book Club or Bible Study Group this week. Let's keep the work moving forward, together!