The Simple Power of Sharing Jesus: Lessons from Valentine's Week and the Mission Field

Hey Rogue Disciples! Happy (belated) Valentine's week!

Seriously, think about that for a second. It’s a week dedicated to love. And as Hollis shared so eloquently in the This is Kingdom podcast, that’s a powerful reminder of the love we have in Christ and the love we can share.

I loved how he recounted his experience preparing for his mission – being told that the best thing he could do was simply preach the gospel of Christ. It’s so easy to get caught up in feeling like we need to have all the answers, to craft the perfect lesson, to *perform* our discipleship. But sometimes, the most meaningful moments, the ones that truly change lives, come from those simple, sincere conversations.

Think back to your own mission experiences. Was it the complex doctrinal explanations that resonated most with investigators? Or was it the times you just shared a heartfelt testimony, a simple truth about the Savior’s love?

I remember an investigator in my area who was struggling with a deep sense of loneliness. I’d spent weeks trying to teach him about the Restoration, about the plan of salvation. Nothing seemed to click. Then, one day, I just shared a personal experience – how I’d felt lost and disconnected before finding Christ. I didn't try to be profound; I just spoke from the heart. And in that moment, his eyes lit up. He felt seen, understood. That simple connection opened the door for deeper discussions, and eventually, he embraced the gospel.

It’s a lesson that extends far beyond the mission field. As internet missionaries, we often feel pressure to create engaging content, to be witty and clever. But remember, the power isn't in the presentation; it's in the message. A simple, sincere post about the Savior’s love can be more impactful than a perfectly crafted infographic.

Davee and I were talking about this just yesterday. He helped me work through a scenario where an investigator was asking tough questions about the Book of Mormon translation. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and try to provide a detailed defense. But sometimes, the most effective approach is to acknowledge the questions, share your own testimony of the Book of Mormon’s truthfulness, and invite them to pray for understanding. Simple. Powerful.

This idea of simplicity also resonates with President Eyring’s talk, “Simple is the Doctrine of Jesus Christ.” We often overcomplicate things, trying to impress or prove ourselves. But the gospel isn’t about intellectual gymnastics; it’s about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

So, this week, let’s challenge ourselves to embrace the power of simple. Let's focus on sharing the good news in a way that’s authentic and heartfelt. Let’s be those friends who offer a comforting word, a listening ear, a simple testimony that can change someone's life.

Want to practice this? Join us for the weekly Disciple Challenge! It’s a great way to hone your skills and connect with other internet missionaries.

And if you’re feeling particularly inspired, dive deeper into Isaiah studies through a LivingBook book club. There’s a wealth of knowledge and fellowship waiting for you.

To all those prepping for a mission – you’re about to embark on an incredible journey! Remember, don’t try to be someone you’re not. Just be yourself, share your testimony, and let the Spirit guide you.

Keep striving to be Christlike. Keep striving to be disciples.

– Brother [Your Name/Handle]