There have been those moments in my own life when silence felt louder than any noise – when distance from God doesn’t come through rebellion, it comes through weariness, disappointments, or quiet drifting. In those moments – I never thought of them as sacred hidden places. However, Elder Clark G. Gilbert’s message, Come Home, reminded me of how Christ rescued me. Elder Gilbert’s testimony is both disarming and deeply personal: Jesus Christ is not waiting to condemn you – He is actively calling you back. This is not an invitation for us to return to any religious belief – it is a return to a covenantal relationship where Christ desires to bring us face-to-face with our Heavenly Father. Through this process, we find healing, restoration, peace, and the joy that surpasses all understanding. It is an invitation for those wandering and lost today.

And here is the profound truth Elder Gilbert centers his message: Christ is not only our Redeemer – but He is also our Repairer. This distinction is of immense importance. Many of us hold to the idea that Jesus forgives us – however, how many of us truly believe and experience the reality of His power to restore us? Through personal stories, doctrinal clarity, and prophetic and apostolic witness, this message unfolds the spiritual reality and truth – no fracture; spiritual, emotional, or relational, is beyond the Savior’s power to amend through the gift and tender mercies of the infinite atonement.

Elder Gilbert’s message acknowledges the real barriers that prevent people from returning. It is these barriers I have found myself referring back to regarding my own devotional teachings and messages. The very same barriers I’ve struggled with over the years in returning back to the faith of the Restored Gospel. Feelings of not belonging, feelings of inadequacy, doubt, or even feeling trapped within cultural or religious expectations often obscure an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Elder Gilbert does not dismiss these struggles; instead, he speaks directly into them with compassion and clarity. His approach is refreshing as it resonates with the hearts of many who grapple with these complex emotions.

For me, the ultimate truth of this message is not about people leaving the faith – it is about the reason they are able to return. And for me, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a place for perfect people – it is a home for those returning. This home isn’t just a metaphorical return; it’s a genuine invitation to embrace love, understanding, and acceptance in the arms of a Savior who knows our struggles intimately.

Consider what the Savior taught regarding this profound and yet simplistic principle and truth:

“As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax-collection station, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with Jesus and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard this, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous but sinners.” (Matthew 9:10-13, NRSVUE).

In this scene, Jesus is having a meal with Matthew, a former tax collector, and a mixed crowd of people whom the religious leaders dubbed as tax collectors and sinners. When the Pharisees, the self-appointed guardians of what’s pure and pious, ask why he would spend time with such unclean folks, Jesus turns the whole conversation on its head. He doesn’t see himself as a judge but as a healer. He highlights that his mission isn’t about reaffirming those who think they’re just fine—essentially the self-righteous—but about reaching out to those who are honest enough to see their own brokenness. By quoting the prophet Hosea—“I desire mercy, not sacrifice”—he underscores that compassion trumps strict religious rules or pushing people away.

In addition to this powerful depiction, it’s crucial to reflect on the implications of this teaching in our daily lives. The moments we find ourselves in judgment rather than in service can detract from our mission as followers of Christ. When we look at the world with eyes that see brokenness, we are called to serve rather than criticize. Our posture should always be one of humility, recognizing our own need for mercy.

For me, Christ is not waiting to condemn; even the Apostle Paul writes: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1, NRSVUE). In my own life, those I have ministered to and sat in counsel with over the years have experienced this invitation to come back to Him. And the sad reality is: how often do we stand in the shoes of the Pharisees? How often are we prone to judge and criticize those who have left the LDS Faith, or even those who have left the Christian faith in general? While the Pharisees saw the dinner table as a place of judgment and an opportunity to avoid those who are deemed unworthy – sinners – Christ saw it as a place of ministry, healing, and deep connection.

One of the oft-repeated excuses that frustrates me is this: The Gospel is Perfect; the Church is True – the people are not. This bumper sticker cliché seems to slap a band-aid on people who have truly been disappointed, hurt, or pushed to the side as if they don’t matter or belong. This perspective can inadvertently perpetuate a culture of exclusion rather than inclusion, failing to recognize that the essence of the Gospel is about love and reconciliation.

In reality, Jesus’ message invites every individual, regardless of their past or present struggles, to experience the fullness of His grace and mercy—a message that should resonate deeply within the walls of every church and community devoted to His service.

Jesus Christ — Our Redeemer and Repairer

At the core of Elder Gilbert’s message is a doctrinal truth that resonates deeply across all scripture: Jesus Christ does not merely forgive—He restores.

In the Book of Mormon, this profound concept is expressed powerfully: “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind… that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people.” (Alma 7:11–12). This scripture illustrates not only the breadth of Christ’s suffering but also His intimate understanding of human struggles. He fully immersed Himself in the depths of earthly experience, making Him uniquely qualified to offer true support and healing to those in need.

Christ’s atonement is not distant or theoretical; it is profoundly experiential. He knows how to repair because He has entered into the very depths of human brokenness. This understanding transforms the way we perceive our own trials and missteps. We can find solace in knowing that our Savior empathizes with our pain and has the power to mend what seems irreparable.

The Doctrine and Covenants expands this beautifully: “I, the Lord, forgive sins… Go thy way and sin no more.” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:42–43). This passage emphasizes the immediate nature of forgiveness, highlighting that while Christ does indeed forgive our sins, the process of transformation is ongoing. Forgiveness is not an endpoint; rather, it is the beginning of a journey towards becoming more like Him. Christ does not simply erase the past; He rebuilds the future, inviting us to participate in our own renewal and growth.

This aligns seamlessly with the biblical witness found in Paul’s epistles: “If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NRSVUE). This declaration invites us to embrace our new identity in Christ, reminding us that our past does not define us. The work of restoration begins the moment we choose to turn to Him, allowing His divine influence to work within us and shape our lives anew.

Furthermore, even in the Pearl of Great Price, we see God’s restorative intent from the very beginning: “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39). This scripture affirms that God’s purpose is intrinsically linked to our ultimate well-being and eternal progression. He isn’t merely a distant figure but a loving Father who desires to uplift His children and lead them home.

Elder Gilbert’s testimony stands firmly in this divine pattern: Christ repairs what sin breaks, what grief shatters, and what time erodes. His work in our lives is holistic, addressing not just our spiritual maladies but the emotional and physical scars we carry as well. He is not managing your damage—He is making you whole, nurturing you into the fullness of life that He intended for you from the very beginning. In this journey of restoration, we are not alone; we have the assurance of a Savior who walks beside us, gently guiding us toward healing and wholeness. Through His grace, our transformations become testimonies of His miraculous power to restore, renew, and redeem.

God Is Calling Us Home

The invitation to “come home” resonates profoundly and consistently throughout every dispensation of scripture, emphasizing the importance of returning to a place of spiritual belonging and comfort.

In the Book of Mormon, this plea is articulated with urgency and tenderness, illustrating that the opportunity for redemption and transformation is always available. The scriptural urging states: “Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him.” (Moroni 10:32). This isn’t merely a conditional invitation extended to a select few; it embodies a universal call that transcends circumstances, backgrounds, and life experiences. Every reader is invited to embrace this path of perfection found in Christ, reinforcing the idea that no one is outside the reach of divine love.

Similarly, in the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord beckons us with a promise that echoes across generations: “Return unto me… and I will return unto you.” (D&C 90:24). This powerful declaration suggests that God is ever-present, longing for our return. It emphasizes that God does not hide from His children; rather, He actively calls them, urging them to bridge the gap that may have formed due to life’s distractions and challenges.

The resonance of this theme continues in the Bible, with the Lord proclaiming: “Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts.” (Malachi 3:7, NRSVUE). Here, the divine assurance of God’s welcoming arms is reiterated, inviting believers to reconnect, regardless of how far they may feel estranged from their faith.

Elder Gilbert artfully reinforces these sentiments by sharing real-life stories that highlight this universal journey back home. He recounts instances of individuals sitting in parking lots, grappling with doubts about their belonging, only to discover an undeniable compulsion drawing them back to the fold. That compelling force they feel is not one of guilt or shame; rather, it is the divine influence of grace that calls them home. Grace invites and uplifts, reminding us that the journey back to Christ is marked by love rather than condemnation.

Furthermore, even in Moses 6:52, the Lord commands: “Repent… and be baptized… in the name of mine Only Begotten Son.” This illustrates the foundational aspect of the call home being centered in Christ, who serves as the pivotal figure in our quest for redemption. His grace and teachings provide the blueprint for returning to our spiritual roots and ultimately finding peace.

The overarching message is vividly clear: no matter the distance one may feel from their spiritual home, the compassionate voice of the Shepherd is ever-present, reaching out, yearning for connection. This reassurance seeks to touch every heart, conveying that the way back is always open, filled with hope and unwavering love. In this profound invitation to “come home,” individuals are reminded that no act or choice can sever the bond they share with the divine. With each step toward Christ, they are met with open arms, showcasing a journey adorned in grace and filled with promise.

To Those Who Feel They Don’t Belong

Few lies are more spiritually damaging than the belief that you don’t belong. This profound misconception can lead individuals to feel isolated, unloved, and disconnected from community and faith. The journey towards understanding our inherent belonging is beautifully illuminated in scripture, which dismantles that lie completely.

Ephesians 2:19 (NRSVUE) assures us that “Ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints.” This powerful declaration emphasizes that every individual is welcomed into the fold of God’s family. No one is an outsider in His eyes; rather, we are fellow citizens among those who share the faith.

The Book of Mormon further corroborates this message, affirming, “The Lord inviteth them all to come unto him… black and white, bond and free.” (2 Nephi 26:33). This verse embodies the radical inclusivity of the gospel. It is a reminder that regardless of our backgrounds, we are invited to partake in the blessings of faith. In the Kingdom of God, there is no spiritual caste system that dictates who is worthy or unworthy.

Elder Gilbert’s poignant story of someone sitting outside the church building for weeks before entering reflects a deeper truth: belonging often begins before participation. Many people may wrestle with feelings of inadequacy or doubt, yet God claims you before you feel comfortable. His love is present and available even when we are hesitant or unsure.

The Doctrine and Covenants offers additional reassurance, stating: “Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.” (D&C 18:10). This scripture emphasizes the preciousness of every individual, reminding us that our value is inherent and divinely recognized. Belonging is not earned—it is declared by our Creator. We do not have to meet certain criteria or thresholds to belong; His invitation is unconditional and filled with grace.

In Moses 7:18, Zion is described as a people: “Of one heart and one mind… and there was no poor among them.” This paints a picture of a community that values solidarity, support, and love for one another. Zion is not an exclusive club; it is a unified body of believers who uplift and care for each other. It exemplifies the beauty of what it means to belong—to be part of something greater that transcends individual differences.

Here is what I had to grapple with myself, and maybe you are in this place as well, struggling. Know this, you belong not because you fit within a predefined mold—but because Christ invites you into His loving embrace. It is this invitation that transforms our understanding of community and belonging, guiding us to see ourselves as valuable members of the Body of Christ, called to love, serve, and support one another along our spiritual journeys. Each person is vital, and together we can create a vibrant tapestry of faith that reflects the love and acceptance that Jesus exemplified.

To Those Who Feel They Don’t Measure Up

Spiritual inadequacy is one of the enemy’s most effective tools. It often leads individuals to feel unworthy or incapable of achieving their spiritual potential. This deep-seated belief can hinder personal growth and relationship with God. However, the gospel dismantles this feeling of inadequacy completely. As stated in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NRSVUE), “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” This powerful verse reassures us that our shortcomings do not disqualify us from receiving divine assistance; instead, they become the context in which God’s grace becomes most evident.

Furthermore, the Book of Mormon echoes this sentiment beautifully: “It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23). This passage clarifies that grace is not something we earn through our actions, but rather it is a gift that meets us at our effort. It emphasizes that while we strive to do our part, it is through divine grace that we ultimately find salvation and strength.

The Doctrine and Covenants adds depth to this understanding: “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not” (D&C 6:36). This reminder invites us to focus our thoughts on Christ, suggesting that when we place our trust in Him, we can overcome fear and doubt. Instead of being weighed down by feelings of inadequacy, we are encouraged to shift our perspective and trust in His grace and guidance.

Elder Gilbert’s framing of Christ as the “Repairer” presents a profound counter-narrative to the harmful concept of perfectionism. It serves as a comforting reminder that we are not finished products; we are each a unique work in progress, constantly being shaped and improved by our experiences and the influence of the Savior. In this journey of continual improvement, we are met with love and understanding rather than judgment.

And in Ether 12:27, we receive one of the most hopeful promises in all scripture: “If men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness… then will I make weak things become strong.” This verse beautifully encapsulates the truth that our weaknesses are not disqualifying. Instead, they represent the very place where Christ begins His transformative work within us. When we acknowledge our weaknesses and bring them to Him, we open ourselves up to growth and healing.

I had to face my own spiritual inadequacies because they definitely served as a backdrop for the manifestation of divine grace. They had become the fertile ground where Christ’s power is made perfect. Rather than feeling defeated by my own weaknesses, I came to terms and embraced them as opportunities for growth, trusting that Christ is ever-present, guiding me on this journey and transforming those weaknesses into strengths.

To Those Who Struggle with Doubt

Doubt is often treated as failure—but scripture treats it as an invitation to seek. “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find.” (Matthew 7:7, NRSVUE). This verse emphasizes that doubt should not be viewed negatively but rather as a motivation to engage in a deeper inquiry into our beliefs. It suggests that asking questions and searching for understanding is a crucial part of spiritual growth.

The Book of Mormon provides a powerful pattern: “Even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you.” (Alma 32:27). Here, we see that even the smallest spark of desire, a mere willingness to believe, can be sufficient to initiate the journey toward faith. This acknowledgment that doubt and desire can coexist is vital; it illustrates that faith can develop gradually and iteratively.

Faith does not begin with certainty—it begins with willingness. When we allow ourselves to be open to learning and to exploring our doubts, we create the space for faith to grow. This willingness is a proactive stance that acknowledges our uncertainties while remaining hopeful for enlightenment.

Elder Gilbert warns that the adversary can distort truth, but the answer is not fear—it is revelation. “Seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” (D&C 88:118). This counsel invites us to actively seek knowledge through both academic study and spiritual pondering. The dual approach of combining reason with faith helps to combat feelings of doubt by illuminating paths to understanding that resonate with our inner convictions.

Furthermore, the assurance found in: “The Spirit shall enlighten your mind… and fill your soul with joy.” (D&C 11:13) reminds us that divine guidance is available to us as we navigate our spiritual journeys. The joy referenced here accompanies the illumination of our minds, signaling that seeking truth can lead to profound satisfaction and understanding.

In the Pearl of Great Price, Adam learns truth through experience and revelation—not instant understanding (Moses 5:10–11). This narrative reinforces the importance of patience and the process of learning. Adam’s journey shows that revelation often comes line upon line, precept upon precept, acknowledging that doubt plays a role in prompting deeper understanding.

Ultimately, doubt is not the end of faith—it is often the doorway into deeper, more refined belief. When approached with curiosity and a desire to understand, doubt can serve as a powerful catalyst for spiritual growth. It encourages us to explore the complexities of our beliefs and pushes us toward a more profound and resilient faith based on personal discovery and revelation. Embracing this perspective can transform our view of doubt—from a stumbling block into a stepping stone on our spiritual journey.

To Those Trapped in Traditions

Not all spiritual barriers are sins—some are inherited patterns that obscure Christ. These barriers can manifest in various forms, often disguised as well-intentioned beliefs or customs that may lead us away from the truth of the Gospel.

Jesus warned us against this concern when He stated: “You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.” (Mark 7:8, NRSVUE). This admonition serves as a crucial reminder that blindly following established traditions without discerning their alignment with divine principles can create a significant spiritual disconnect.

The Book of Mormon reinforces this teaching by repeatedly calling out the danger of false traditions. In Mosiah 1:5, it notes, “Because of the traditions of their fathers… they did not believe.” This scriptural context emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating the beliefs we inherit and ensuring they guide us toward faith and understanding rather than doubt and confusion.

Elder Gilbert’s message serves as an invitation for introspection and reevaluation of our religious habits. Are our practices fostering a deeper relationship with Christ, or are they merely routines that distance us from Him? This question challenges us to be mindful of how we engage with our faith and the traditions we uphold.

Additionally, the Doctrine and Covenants calls for a higher alignment with divine truth, stating: “Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.” (D&C 1:38). This emphasizes the need for unity and clarity in our understanding and adherence to God’s will. It reassures us that truth, which encompasses the principles of the Gospel, transcends cultural norms and societal expectations.

Truth is not cultural—it is divine. In Abraham 3:25, we are reminded: “We will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them.” This verse highlights the testing and proving ground that life presents, where we are called to act in faith and obedience regardless of inherited beliefs that cloud our understanding.

The notion that tradition must submit to truth cannot be overstated. In a world that often values tradition over substance, it’s vital to remember that Christ is not calling you into mere religious performance or routine rituals—He is extending an invitation to experience a genuine covenant relationship. This relationship is characterized by love, trust, and a profound commitment to following Him and His teachings.

Let us strive to cultivate an environment where our traditions enhance our connection to Christ rather than hinder it. Embracing truth over tradition fosters a faith perspective rooted in divine principles that lead us ever closer to Him.

Reflections and Thoughts

Elder Gilbert’s message ultimately confronts one central question: Do you believe you can still come home?

Because everything in the gospel hinges on that answer. The journey home is a profound theme woven throughout the teachings of Christ, as it encompasses love, forgiveness, and the promise of redemption. The invitation to return is not merely a call; it is a divine assurance that, no matter where you have wandered, there is always a path back to grace and mercy.

The scriptures testify with one voice:

Christ redeems (Alma 7): This reminds us that no matter the burdens we carry or the mistakes we’ve made, the Savior has the power to lift us, cleanse us, and bring us back to a place of peace.

Christ invites (Moroni 10): This invitation is extended to all, regardless of past choices or current struggles. It encourages believers to seek wisdom, to pray, and to look toward the light that Christ offers.

Christ restores (D&C 58): The promise of restoration is powerful. It assures us that we can be made whole again, revitalized in our spirits and renewed in our commitment to living a gospel-centered life.

Christ transforms (Ether 12): Transformation is a key aspect of the gospel. It highlights the idea that through faith in Christ, individuals can experience fundamental changes in their hearts and lives, moving from despair to hope, and from separation to unity with the divine.

The only question left is whether we will respond. Will we act upon the invitation extended to us and take the steps necessary to return? Will we trust in the Savior’s love and His ability to guide us homeward?

This message is not about shame—it is about hope. It is about the steadfast belief that, regardless of past experiences or current circumstances, there is a divine path laid out for each of us. It is about understanding that this journey is not defined by where you’ve been—but by where Christ is calling you now. His voice resonates through time, echoing the eternal message of love and acceptance.

And His voice is still the same:

Come home. This call to return is more than just an invitation; it is a beacon of hope that reassures us we are never too far gone to find our way back. It is a celebration of the possibility of new beginnings, a reminder that each moment is an opportunity to reconnect with the source of all light and love.