The Power of a Simple Gesture: Seeing the Good in the Hard Moments

Sometimes, when you’re out in the field—whether you’re in a bustling city center, a quiet corner of your own neighborhood, or even just scrolling through the feed on your phone—you encounter something that feels completely out of place. Something that seems designed to throw you off balance.

I was recently reflecting on a story I heard from a returned missionary. It was a vivid picture: a high school parking lot, a principal nearby, and a group of girls approaching him. They handed him a brown paper bag. The warning was immediate—don't open it until you get away.

When he finally did, the contents weren't what anyone expected. It was a collection of items—condoms, morning-after pills, birth control—all accompanied by a handwritten letter. The message, though delivered through these physical items, was a declaration: they were protesting something, and they were sharing a message of chastity because of the people who pray and fast for the ministry.

It’s a powerful moment, isn't it? The contrast between the seemingly secular, even rebellious, nature of the props, and the deeply earnest, spiritual core of the message. It speaks volumes about the Spirit's ability to work through unexpected channels.

Finding the Message in the Mess

As we disciples, we are taught that the Spirit doesn't just show up when everything is perfect. He shows up in the messy reality of the world. He shows up in the challenging missionary discussions, in the awkward moments during a temple recommend interview, and yes, even in the seemingly random encounters that make us pause and ask, "What was the Lord trying to teach me here?"

This story reminds me of what we talk about in the MTC—that the preparation isn't just about memorizing scriptures or knowing talk tracks; it’s about developing the *eyes* to see the gospel principle at work, no matter how disguised it is.

A Disciple's Mindset: Always Looking for the Light

If you are feeling discouraged in your own efforts to share the gospel, or if you feel like the world is pushing back hard against the message of Christ, remember this. The message of the restored gospel—the message of repentance, covenant keeping, and the Atonement—is persistent. It finds a way. It always does.

This is the heart of being an internet missionary. It means that whether you are in the living room, at work, or waiting in line for coffee, you are equipped to be a disciple. You are equipped to see the potential for light, even when the packaging is brown paper and condoms.

If you want to sharpen this ability to see the divine hand at work, I highly recommend diving into the Iron Rod authors. There are some incredible insights into seeing the world through a covenant lens. If you haven't, take some time to check out the LivingBook!

Speaking of preparation, if you are feeling the call to serve, or if you just want to deepen your understanding of the foundational principles, I encourage you to join a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. These are wonderful places to process these kinds of powerful testimonies with others.

What are your thoughts? Have you ever encountered something unexpected that ultimately pointed you toward the Savior? Share your experiences below. And if you’re ready to practice that discernment, join me for our free weekly Disciple Challenge this week!

Remember, we are called to be Christlike in all things. Let's keep watching for the Spirit's whisper.