The Pull of Holiness: Why We Love to See the Temple

There are moments in life when a feeling washes over you—a deep, almost physical yearning. It’s a yearning that doesn't come from earthly things, but from the Spirit itself. Maybe you’ve heard the song, or perhaps you’ve just spent time in a sacred place, and that feeling lingers. It’s the feeling of anticipation, of homecoming.

When I was preparing for my mission, I remember hearing that song constantly. It wasn't just a catchy tune; it felt like a promise, a covenant whispered on the wind. The lyrics—'I love to see the temple'—aren't just sentimental; they are a statement of discipleship. They are a recognition of where the Lord has prepared a place for us to connect with Him in a profound way.

For those of us who have been through the process—the MTC, the early days in the field, the sacred moments of missionary discussions—we understand that the temple is more than just beautiful architecture. It is a literal house of the Lord, a place where covenants are renewed, and where we are reminded that we are, indeed, children of God.

If you’re currently in the thick of missionary preparation, or perhaps you’re a returned missionary feeling the pull to deepen your covenants, I want to share something that helped me anchor this feeling: focusing on the *why*. The temple isn't an end goal; it’s a vital waypoint on the journey of becoming more like Christ.

It reminds us that our lives here are temporary, but the covenants made within those sacred walls are forever. It’s a constant, gentle nudge to keep striving to be Christlike, to keep learning, and to keep drawing closer to the Spirit.

This feeling of longing is actually a wonderful indicator of where your heart is drawn—toward the divine. It’s a beautiful sign that the Spirit is at work, guiding your focus toward eternal realities. It’s a powerful motivator to keep studying, keep praying, and keep inviting others to learn these truths.

A Skill for the Field: Anchoring the Covenant

As we continue our work as Internet missionaries, we are always talking about covenants. When you feel that pull toward the temple, use it! When you are teaching a lesson or having a missionary discussion, don't just talk *about* the temple; talk about the *feeling* it evokes. Talk about the covenant power. It makes the gospel tangible.

Speaking of tangible learning, I highly recommend revisiting the insights on temple covenants. If you haven't already, check out some of the amazing resources available in LivingBook, especially anything related to the temple endowment or sealing ordinances. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your own testimony while preparing to share it.

If you want to talk more about how to translate that feeling into action—how to guide an investigator through the weight and wonder of temple covenants—I’d love for you to join me for our next session. We’re hosting a focused Bible Study Group next week in HolyPlaces. It’s a perfect chance to dig into scripture discipleship together.

Remember, every member can be an Internet missionary, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time. Let that beautiful longing for holiness guide your efforts this week!

P.S. If you're looking for something to read while you're out in the field, check out any of the recent Iron Rod authors available in LivingBook. Sometimes a well-placed chapter is the perfect companion to a powerful feeling.