Embrace Missionary Work Today!

We have found that sharing the gospel in simple, normal, and natural ways through the principles of “love, share, invite” greatly blesses the kingdom. Jesus Christ shared the gospel this way when He lived on earth. He shared His life and His love and invited all to come unto Him (see Matthew 11:28). To love, share, and invite as He did is a special blessing and responsibility for every member of the Church.

Elder Quentin L. Cook – Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

It is crucial to be anxiously engaged in the Lord’s work to effectively preach the Gospel. Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, in this month’s Liahona¹, emphasizes that our efforts to love, share, and invite others are essential in laboring with Christ to minister and share the gospel. This enables others to come unto Christ and follow Him.

Elder Cook cites President David O. McKay’s declaration that every member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints should be a “Member Missionary,” highlighting our collective responsibility in this sacred endeavor².

Shortly after his return from the world tour, he was called to be the president of the European Mission. He left for Liverpool in November of 1922. It was during this calling that he began to teach the concept of “every member a missionary,” an emphasis he would later continue as Church President. As a mission president, he reorganized missionaries into groups, with several missionaries acting as traveling elders to help train the other missionaries in better teaching methods. One of his greatest challenges was to defuse negative press. His method was to personally contact the editors and reason with them, asking for equal opportunity to present the truth about the Church.

The urgency of this work is underscored by Spencer W. Kimball, who stressed that the message of the Gospel of Christ, restored in these latter days, must be shared with all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples today³.

The day for carrying the gospel to ever more places and people is here and now. We must come to think of our obligation to share the message rather than of our own convenience. Calls from the Lord are seldom convenient. The time is here when sacrifice must become an even more important element in the Church. We must increase our devotion so that we can do the work the Lord has for us to do … The parting words of the Master to His apostles just before His ascension were, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (Mark 16:15-16).

We must not falter nor weary in well-doing. We must lengthen our stride. Not only is our own eternal welfare at stake, but also the eternal welfare of many of our brothers and sisters who are not now members of this, the true Church. I thrill to the words of the Prophet Joseph Smith in a letter that he sent to the Church from Nauvoo on September 6, 1842: “Shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward. … Courage. … and on, on to the victory!” (Doctrine and Covenants 128:22).

The magnitude of our responsibility is further illustrated by Gordon B. Hinckley, who recognized the importance and weighty responsibility of preaching the Gospel⁴.

Great is our work, tremendous is our responsibility in helping to find those to teach. The Lord has laid upon us a mandate to teach the gospel to every creature. This will take the very best efforts of every missionary—full-time and stake. It will take the very best efforts of every bishop, of every bishop’s counselor, of every member of the ward council. It will take the very best interests of every stake president and his council, and particularly the Member Missionary Coordinating Councils.

President Russell M. Nelson also reminds us that missionary work is an essential part of the gathering of Israel, describing it as the “most important work taking place on the earth today.”⁵

The Lord has commanded that we spread the gospel and share the covenant. That is why we have missionaries. He wishes for every one of His children to have the opportunity to choose the Savior’s gospel and embark upon the covenant path. God wants to connect all people to the covenant He made anciently with Abraham.

Thus, missionary work is an essential part of the great gathering of Israel. That gathering is the most important work taking place on earth today. Nothing else compares in magnitude. Nothing else compares in importance. The Lord’s missionaries—His disciples—are engaged in the greatest challenge, the greatest cause, the greatest work on earth today.

The principles of love, sharing, and inviting outlined in the “Preach My Gospel” manual, published in 2004 and updated in 2023, serve as a guide for both members and missionaries. Elder Cook reflects on how the Savior modeled this pattern of preaching and inviting others to come unto Him. Christ’s atoning sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane, His crucifixion, and resurrection made salvation and exaltation possible for all, compelling us to minister and reach out in love.

Turning to the Savior and pondering all He has done for us creates in us a heart filled with love for Him. He then turns our hearts toward others and commands us to love them (see John 13:34–35) and to share His gospel with them (see Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15). If those around us can feel that we genuinely love and care for them, they will likely open their hearts to our messages, just as King Lamoni opened his heart to receive the gospel because of Ammon’s love and service (see Alma 17–19).

When we share the gospel, let us start with love. As we reach out to others in love—remembering that they are our brothers and sisters and beloved children of our Heavenly Father—opportunities will open for us to share what we know to be true.

Preaching the gospel is an active endeavor. We all possess spiritual gifts meant to teach, counsel, and minister to one another, utilizing these gifts to fulfill the great commission. Elder Cook highlights the exceptional efforts of Russell M. Ballard in missionary work, encouraging us to share the restored Gospel’s blessings, as revealed through Joseph Smith.

Throughout his life, and throughout most of the world, President Ballard was anxiously engaged in sharing this precious message with everyone. He encouraged us to do the same. He taught that we share the gospel “by being good neighbors and by caring and showing love.” In doing so, we “radiate the gospel in our own lives, and … radiate to [others] the blessings the gospel has to offer.” We also “bear testimony of what [we] know and believe and what [we] feel.” President Ballard taught, “A pure testimony … can be carried by the power of the Holy Ghost into the hearts of others who are open to receive it.”

Sharing the restored gospel of Jesus Christ was the greatest desire of President Ballard’s heart. We can be anxiously engaged—as he was—in sharing the gospel in both word and deed. We never know who among us might be searching for the light of the gospel but does not know where to find it (see Doctrine and Covenants 123:12).

We are called to be anxiously engaged in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, taking every opportunity to do so in word and deed. Doctrine and Covenants 123:12 reminds us that we may never know who among us is searching for the Gospel’s light. Our heartfelt desires to minister with compassion and kindness will allow others to see the light and love of Christ in our actions, inviting them to experience the same joy.

Finally, Elder Cook encourages us to rely on the Holy Spirit’s power and authority, trusting that the Lord will guide us in our words and actions. Just as Christ assured His disciples that the Spirit would reveal what to say, we too have access to speak with authority, conviction, and love when sharing the hope within us.

… the Lord has promised that He will labor alongside us because every soul is precious to Him. As we put our trust in the Lord and engage in His service, He will guide us in how to share His gospel with others by loving them, sharing our lives and testimonies with them, and inviting them to join us in following Him.

In my own experience, sharing the Gospel has deepened my appreciation for it. By inspiring others and inviting them to experience the Savior’s love and the peace that comes with following Him, we fulfill our calling to live a mindful Crucified Christian life.

Understanding the Lord’s Great Work

Elder L. Quentin Cook’s message in the July Liahona emphasizes the significance and scope of the Lord’s great work. It’s crucial to understand what this entails and what our role is in it. Let’s explore these ideas further:

The Mission of Bringing Souls to Christ

The core mission of the Lord’s work, as outlined by Elder Cook, is the bringing of souls to Christ. This mission is crucial because it aligns with the greater plan of salvation. Elder Cook explains that through missionary work, we participate in helping others find peace, joy, and eternal life by coming unto Christ. This isn’t just about increasing numbers in the church; it’s about transforming lives and offering hope to those who may not have it.

Imagine you’re stranded in a dark place with no way out. Suddenly, someone hands you a flashlight and shows you the path to safety. That’s what missionary work does – it guides souls to the light and love of Jesus Christ.

Our Role in the Lord’s Work

Elder Cook emphasizes that every member of the church has a vital role in this mission. But how exactly can we contribute?

1. Love and Invite: At the core, it’s about love. When we genuinely love our neighbors, sharing the gospel becomes a natural action. We want them to feel the same joy and peace that we do.
2. Use Your Talents: Everyone has unique abilities. Some are great at speaking, while others might excel in one-on-one conversations or even through writing and social media. Find your strength and use it to share the gospel.
3. Be Persistent: Missionary work isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we may face rejection or indifference. But Elder Cook encourages us to be patient and persistent, knowing that the Lord guides our efforts.

Everyone has an opportunity to play a part in missionary work, whether it’s through daily acts of kindness, sharing our testimonies, or even inviting a friend to church.

In summary, understanding and participating in the Lord’s great work means bringing souls to Christ through our love, talents, and persistence. Each of us has a role in this divine mission, and together, we can help others find the joy and peace that comes from knowing the Savior.

Practical Steps to Engage in Missionary Work

Engaging in missionary work is an essential part of our calling as Christians. It allows us to share the love and teachings of Jesus Christ with others. Here are some practical steps you can take to be more effective in your missionary efforts.

Start with Love

Love is the foundation of all missionary work. When we approach others with genuine love and compassion, our message of the gospel becomes powerful and transformative. Consider the following ways to infuse love into your missionary efforts:

• Sincere Relationships: Build real, lasting relationships with those you are trying to reach. People are more receptive when they feel you genuinely care about their well-being.
• Empathy and Understanding: Put yourself in their shoes. Try to understand their struggles and perspectives. This empathy can guide your conversations and make your message more relatable.
• Acts of Kindness: Sometimes actions speak louder than words. Simple acts of kindness, like helping a neighbor or volunteering, can open the door to spiritual conversations.

Remember, every act of love is a seed planted. Over time, these seeds can grow into a strong testimony and acceptance of the gospel.

Be Anxiously Engaged

To be effective in missionary work, we must be proactive and dedicated. Here are some strategies to stay engaged:

1. Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your missionary activities. This can be daily, weekly, or monthly goals such as sharing your testimony, inviting friends to church, or participating in community service.
2. Use Available Resources: Utilize church-provided resources like the “Preach My Gospel” manual and online missionary tools. These resources can give you ideas and methods to improve your efforts.
3. Involve Your Family: Make missionary work a family affair. Include your spouse and children in your activities. This not only sets a great example but also strengthens your family’s collective testimony.
4. Stay Persistent: Missionary work can be challenging, and you may face rejection. Keep going and trust that the Lord will guide you. Every effort counts, even if you don’t see immediate results.
5. Pray for Guidance: Seek the Lord’s guidance in your efforts. Prayer can provide comfort, direction, and inspiration in your missionary journey.

By staying anxiously engaged, you align yourself with the Lord’s work and can make a significant impact in the lives of others.

Engaging in Missionary Work Through Social Media

Reaching out to people with the gospel message has taken on new dimensions in the digital age. Using media, we can extend our influence and share Christ’s love far beyond our immediate surroundings. Here’s how you can get started.

Blogging: Tips on creating a successful blog focused on missionary work

Blogging is a fantastic way to share your missionary experiences and testimonies. It helps build a community and offers a personal touch to your missionary work. Here’s how to create a successful blog focused on missionary work:

1. Choose the Right Platform: Select a user-friendly platform like WordPress, Blogger, or Wix. These platforms offer templates that make it easy to start without needing technical skills.
2. Create Engaging Content: Write about personal experiences, lessons from the scriptures, and inspiring stories of faith. Use a conversational tone to make your posts relatable.
3. Use Visuals: Incorporate pictures, videos, and infographics to make your blog more attractive. Visuals can help convey your message more effectively.
4. SEO Optimization: Use keywords related to missionary work to improve your blog’s search engine ranking. Terms like “missionary work”, “gospel”, and “faith stories” should be part of your content.
5. Engage with Your Audience: Encourage comments and discussions. Respond to readers’ questions and thoughts to build a sense of community.
6. Promote on social media: Share your posts on social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram can drive traffic to your blog.

Your blog can become a digital diary that not only records your journey but also inspires others to explore and embrace the gospel.

Podcasting: How to start a podcast to share gospel messages

Starting a podcast can be an exciting way to share gospel messages, capitalizing on the popularity of audio content. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Plan Your Content: Decide on the topics you’ll cover, such as scripture study, missionary experiences, interviews with church members, and personal testimonies. Create an episode outline to stay organized.
2. Choose Your Equipment: Invest in a good-quality microphone and headphones. Recording software like Audacity or GarageBand is essential for editing your podcasts.
3. Find a Hosting Service: Platforms like Podbean, Anchor, and Buzzsprout offer hosting services where you can upload your episodes. They also help distribute your podcast to directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
4. Record and Edit: Find a quiet place to record. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Edit your episodes to remove any mistakes and add intros, outros, and any background music.
5. Promote Your Podcast: Share episodes on social media and your blog. Encourage listeners to subscribe, rate, and review your podcast. Engage with your audience by asking questions and encouraging feedback.
6. Consistency is Key: Release episodes on a regular schedule, whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Consistency helps in building a loyal audience.

Podcasting allows you to reach busy people who might not have time to read a blog but can listen to your messages during their day.

Video Presentations: Guide on creating impactful video content for missionary purposes

Creating video content can be one of the most impactful ways to engage with others about missionary work. Videos allow you to show rather than just tell, bringing your message to life. Here’s how to create compelling videos:

1. Develop a Script: Plan what you’re going to say. Your script should include key messages, personal stories, and calls to action. Practice ensuring a smooth delivery.
2. Use Quality Equipment: Invest in a good camera or even a high-quality smartphone. Use a tripod to keep your shots steady and ensure good lighting and clear audio.
3. Edit Your Videos: Use video editing software like iMovie, Adobe Premiere, or even free tools like DaVinci Resolve. Edit out mistakes, add captions, and include background music to enhance your video.
4. Short and Sweet: Keep your videos concise. Aim for 5-10 minutes to hold viewers’ attention. Ensure each video has a clear focus and message.
5. Interactive Elements: Use elements like graphics, quotes, and scripture references to make your videos more engaging. Encourage viewers to like, comment, and share.
6. Distribute Widely: Upload your videos to platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook. Use keywords and tags to improve visibility. Embed videos in your blog and share on social media.

Video content can capture the essence of your message in a dynamic and personal way, helping you connect with a larger audience.

Engaging in missionary work through media not only broadens your reach but also allows you to use your creativity to share the gospel. Whether you choose blogging, podcasting, or video presentations, each method offers unique ways to inspire and connect with others.

Extending Heartfelt Invitations

Invitations have an incredible power to bring people together and create meaningful connections. Elder Quentin L. Cook emphasizes the importance of extending heartfelt invitations as part of missionary work. When we genuinely invite others, we share love, build trust, and open doors for spiritual growth. Let’s explore how to effectively extend such invitations.

The Power of Personal Invitations

Personal invitations can leave a lasting impact on individuals. When someone receives a heartfelt invitation, it shows that they are valued and cared for. This personal touch can make all the difference in missionary work.

• Make It Personal: Address the person by their name and mention why you thought of them specifically.
• Be Genuine: Sincerity is key. When your invitation comes from the heart, it resonates more with the other person.
• Share Your Experience: Tell them why you find joy in what you’re inviting them to. Your personal testimony can be incredibly persuasive.

Think about how you feel when someone singles you out for something special. It’s like a warm hug, right? That’s exactly how we want others to feel when we invite them to join us in church activities or spiritual gatherings.

Overcoming Hesitations

It’s natural to feel hesitant about inviting others, but overcoming those fears can lead to wonderful outcomes. Here are some strategies to help you move past those hesitations:

1. Pray for Courage: Ask the Lord for the strength and courage to extend invitations. Prayer can provide the comfort and guidance needed to take that step.
2. Practice with Close Friends: If you’re nervous, start by inviting close friends or family members. This can help build your confidence.
3. Expect Rejection: Understand that not everyone will accept your invitation right away, and that’s okay. Keep the door open and continue to show love and kindness.

Think of rejection as a ‘not yet’ rather than a ‘no’. Each invitation is a seed planted, ready to grow when the time is right.

Practical Tips for Invitations

Being prepared and thoughtful can enhance the effectiveness of your invitations. Here are some practical tips to consider:

• Choose the Right Moment: Look for opportunities when the person seems open or interested in spiritual matters.
• Be Clear and Specific: Clearly state what you are inviting them to, including the date, time, and place. Details help people feel more comfortable.
• Follow Up: After extending an invitation, a follow-up message or call can show that you genuinely care about their presence.

For example, instead of just saying, “You should come to church with me some time,” try “I’d love for you to join me at church this Sunday at 10 AM. We could meet before and have breakfast together.”

Creating a Welcoming Environment

Once you’ve extended an invitation, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment is crucial. Here’s how you can help create that atmosphere:

1. Be There to Greet Them: Meeting them at the door or having them sit with you can make them feel more comfortable.
2. Introduce Them to Others: Help them connect with other church members. Introductions can create a sense of belonging.
3. Follow Up Afterwards: After the event, follow up with them to hear their thoughts and answer any questions they might have.

Creating a welcoming environment is like rolling out a red carpet. It shows that you’re not just inviting them to an event, but into a community.

Heartfelt invitations are more than just words; they are expressions of love and care that can lead to transformative spiritual experiences. By personalizing our invitations, overcoming hesitation, and being detail-oriented, we can help others feel valued and welcomed into the fold.

Trust in the Lord’s Guidance

In our journey as disciples of Jesus Christ, trusting in the Lord’s guidance is paramount. Elder L. Quentin Cook’s message reminds us that, regardless of our circumstances, the Lord is always there to guide us. Let’s consider how we can lean on His divine guidance in our daily lives.

Recognizing the Need for Trust

We often face trials and uncertainties that can shake our faith. During these times, it’s vital to remember the Lord’s promise to guide us through all challenges. Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This scripture underscores the importance of trusting God’s wisdom over our own.

When we think of trust, it’s like being blindfolded and knowing someone is there to lead us safely. Trusting the Lord is like holding His hand while He leads us through life’s maze.

Seeking Divine Guidance

To truly benefit from the Lord’s guidance, we must seek it earnestly. Here are some practical ways to invite His guidance into our lives:

1. Prayer: Communicate with God daily. Share your worries, ask for direction, and listen for His answers. Prayer is a two-way conversation, not just a monologue.
2. Scripture Study: The scriptures are full of God’s guidance. Regularly studying them can provide answers and comfort.
3. Listening to the Spirit: The Holy Ghost can whisper to us through thoughts, feelings, and impressions. Be attentive and follow these promptings.
4. Seeking Counsel: Sometimes, God speaks to us through others. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from church leaders, family, and trusted friends.
5. Being Teachable: Approach every situation with an open heart and mind. Be willing to accept the Lord’s guidance even if it differs from your plans.

Overcoming Doubts

We all experience doubts, especially when answers don’t come immediately. It’s crucial to keep faith and trust that the Lord’s timing is perfect. Here’s how you can strengthen your trust:

• Reflect on Past Blessings: Remind yourself of previous times when the Lord has guided you. This can boost your confidence in His continued help.
• Express Gratitude: Regularly counting your blessings can shift your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.
• Stay Patient: Trust involves patience. Remember that God’s view is eternal, and He sees the bigger picture.

Practical Examples of Trust

Trusting the Lord’s guidance involves concrete actions. Consider these examples:

• Life Decisions: Whether it’s choosing a career, deciding whom to marry, or making family decisions, seek the Lord’s input. Pray, ponder, and listen for His direction.
• Missionary Work: When engaging in missionary efforts, trust that the Lord will guide you to those ready to hear the gospel. Follow the promptings to speak, serve, and share.
• Daily Challenges: For everyday problems, whether big or small, turn to the Lord. Like relying on a map in unfamiliar territory, His guidance will help you navigate.

Building a Relationship with God

Trusting the Lord’s guidance isn’t a one-time act; it’s a continual process. Here are ways to build a stronger relationship with Him:

1. Daily Devotions: Set aside time each day for scripture reading, prayer, and reflection.
2. Service: Serving others can bring you closer to God. It’s in the service of our fellow beings that we truly find Him.
3. Worship: Regularly attend church services, participate in the sacrament, and engage in worshipful activities.

Trusting in the Lord’s guidance is key to walking the path He has laid out for us. By relying on His wisdom, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence, knowing that He will lead us towards joy and fulfillment.

Conclusion

Elder L. Quentin Cook’s inspiring message in the July Liahona underscores the profound significance of participating in the Lord’s great work. By embracing our roles as missionaries, we don’t just contribute to increasing church membership; we transform lives and offer eternal hope.

Each of us has a unique opportunity to labor with the Lord through acts of love, persistent efforts, and utilizing our talents. Whether through daily interactions, digital platforms, or personal invitations, our collective involvement can drive the mission of bringing souls to Christ.

As we move forward, let’s remember that every effort counts, and the Lord’s guidance is always with us. Together, we can fulfill this divine mission and help others find the joy and peace offered by the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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Endnotes

1. Cook, Quentin L. “The Lord’s Great Work and Our Great Opportunity.” Liahona, 1 Jul. 2024, pp. 5-9. ↩︎
2. Teachings of the Presidents of the Church – David O. McKay. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2003. p. xxiii. ↩︎
3. Teachings of the Presidents of the Church – Spencer W. Kimball. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2006. pp. 261-62. ↩︎
4. This was an address delivered on February 21, 1999, during a satellite broadcast from Salt Lake Tabernacle. Hinckley, Gordon B. “Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep.” Liahona, 1 Jul. 1999, p. 121. ↩︎
5. Nelson, Russell M. “The Everlasting Covenant.” Liahona, 1 Oct. 2022, p. 9. ↩︎