When the World Goes Quiet: Finding the Spirit in the Art of Sharing

Sometimes, the world throws curveballs at us. Sometimes, the normal rhythms of our lives—the regular missionary discussions, the planned temple visits, even the simple act of knocking on a neighbor’s door—get disrupted. Maybe you’re in a place where gathering is difficult, or perhaps you’re just feeling drained from the sheer effort of the work.

But what happens when the usual avenues for sharing the gospel feel blocked? What do we do when we can’t gather our companions in the usual way, or when the physical space feels too restricted?

I was recently reflecting on a video that really struck a chord with me. It wasn't about grand pronouncements or perfect testimonies; it was about chalk, a chalkboard, and a shared message of the Good Shepherd. It was a beautiful, tangible act of discipleship performed in a time when much of the world felt muted and restricted.

Watching that, I was immediately reminded that the power of the message—the core truth of the restored gospel—doesn't depend on the medium. It depends on the hearts of the disciples sharing it. Sister Hannah, Sister Balch, and the Elders from the Houston East Mission didn't have a perfect setting, but they had each other, and they had the Spirit guiding their hands.

The Spirit Finds a Way

This is the heart of it, isn't it? The Spirit doesn't take a vacation. It moves through the creative, the humble, and the unexpected. It showed me that being an internet missionary isn't just about posting links; it’s about channeling that same creative, heartfelt desire to draw people closer to Christ, whether that drawing is on a chalkboard, a digital canvas, or through a thoughtful conversation.

It made me think about what we learn in missionary preparation. We are taught to be resourceful, to adapt, to be Christlike in every circumstance. We learn that sharing the gospel isn't a performance; it's an overflow of gratitude for the gift of the restored gospel. It’s about pointing people back to the Savior, the hope we turn to.

A Bite-Sized Skill for Our Discipleship

If I could pull one takeaway for you today, it would be about *presence*. When you feel like you don't have the perfect words, or the perfect setting, focus instead on creating a sacred pocket of time with the person in front of you. Ask questions that invite them to share their own feelings, and then listen with the intent to understand, not just to reply. That active, empathetic listening is a powerful tool—it’s a form of testifying that says, "I see you, and I care."

For those of us who are returned missionaries, or even those of us who are lifelong disciples, remember that the work never stops. We are called to be disciples *everywhere*, all the time. If you're feeling stuck in your own sphere, I encourage you to join a Book Club in HolyPlaces. Diving into the scriptures with others is such a powerful way to recharge and refocus on the foundational truths.

Keep the Momentum Going

If this video stirred something in your heart, don't let that feeling fade. Let's keep the momentum going together! If you're looking for a structured way to deepen your study, I highly recommend checking out the latest insights on the Social Scripture Study layer in LivingBook. It’s a wonderful place to see how others are connecting scripture to modern life.

And if you are looking for fellowship or just want to discuss how to apply these principles in your own ward or community, please join us this week for our virtual gathering. Details are posted in the Rogue Disciples group chat!