The Scattered Flock and the Call to Be Unashamed

Sometimes, the most profound moments of discipleship don't happen in the quiet sanctity of a study hall or during a planned missionary discussion. Sometimes, they happen when you're in a public space, armed with the best intentions, only to find yourself facing unexpected resistance. It’s a powerful reminder that being an internet missionary isn't just about knowing the right doctrine; it's about the Spirit guiding our witness when the world throws curveballs.

I was listening to Missy share her story about trying to promote faith-based children’s books in a public library. You can almost feel the tension, can't you? The clash between the beautiful, eternal truth we carry and the casual indifference—or outright skepticism—of the secular environment. It’s a trial for any disciple, especially when we are trying to gather the next generation.

It made me think about the concept of scattering, something the speakers even touched upon when discussing the word 'diaspora.' It’s a word that speaks to being dispersed, to being scattered from a center. But what the Savior taught us, and what the scriptures continually remind us, is that no matter where we are scattered—whether it’s across continents, or just across the aisle in a public forum—the Lord has a plan to gather us.

The Strength in Being Scattered

When we think about the latter-day saints mission field, we often picture the missionaries in the field, or the earnest discussions happening in the MTC. But the reality, as we know, is that the field is everywhere. It’s in the local ward, it’s in the online forum, and yes, it can be in a public library!

Missy and the group were talking about the trials they’ve faced, drawing strength from scriptures like Matthew 18:1-5 and Luke 15:4-7. These aren't just nice stories; they are battle plans for the heart. They teach us that the joy of the Gospel is so potent that it draws people back, no matter how far they wander or how many times they feel scattered.

This is where we, as rogue disciples, find our calling. We don't need to be polished, or perfectly articulate, or even in a designated mission setting to share the light. We just need to remember that the Spirit is our guide, and that our primary message—the Restoration, the Atonement, the Book of Mormon—is powerful enough to cut through the noise.

A Bite-Sized Mission Prep Skill: Embracing the Unexpected

If I could pull one takeaway for you all today, it’s this: Don't let the *setting* intimidate you into silence. If you find yourself in a situation that feels awkward, or challenged, or completely off-script, remember the principle of being unashamed. Be prepared to share your testimony, even if it’s just a simple, heartfelt "I believe in Jesus Christ." That vulnerability is often the most compelling testimony of all.

It takes courage to be visible in your faith, and that visibility is what draws people in. It’s the modern-day equivalent of gathering Israel—it requires intentionality, and sometimes, it requires getting a little bit messy!

Where to Go Next

If stories like this—real-world applications of eternal truths—are what stir your spirit, I highly recommend checking out the Iron Rod. There are some fantastic discussions on discipleship and temple covenants that will help ground your testimony when the world feels shaky.

For those of you who are feeling the pull toward deeper study, I encourage you to join a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. It’s a wonderful place to process these kinds of real-life encounters with the support of your brothers and sisters. If you’re feeling unsure how to handle a tough question from an investigator after witnessing something like this, don't forget to tap into Davee's AI Investigator role—he's ready to walk you through those hard questions!

Keep the Spirit close, brothers and sisters. The work is waiting for us, wherever we are!

— A fellow disciple, always striving to be more Christlike.