:: Being Mormon ::

Elder M. Russell Ballard:

“Some of you may feel guilty about not doing all you can to assist in missionary work. I invite you today to relax.”

Elder Ballard said that we should focus instead on our love of the Savior and our love for our families and neighbors. That will lead naturally into the formation of a ‘gospel-sharing’ home.

“Creating a gospel-sharing home is the easiest and most effective way we can share the gospel with others.”

This is, to me, the best talk I’ve ever heard about missionary work. When we force people into the activity of missionary work, they are more likely to make awkward mistakes that can push people away from the gospel. We may make insincere offers in sharing the gospel and give the impression that we are reaching for numbers rather than simply sharing something that we care about. When we focus instead on the end purpose of missionary work, our love of the Savior, we will foster an environment where truth-seeking people feel welcome. We will be able to bring gospel subjects into our conversations more easily, with “very little chance of being misunderstood.”

“Gospel-centered homes are not defined by whether or not people join the church as a result of our activities.” Instead, we create a loving, gospel-centered atmosphere and show Christlike love for our neighbors and others who enter our home. We are more open to bringing people into our homes. And more good things will happen in our homes.

What is the secret of your success? A woman, asked this in France, replied, “I share my joy!”  Talk about church. Tell people what we’re doing in church. Pray for opportunities to share aspects of the gospel. Not for forced, embarrassing conversations with strangers, but for comfortable opportunities to mention to an acquaintance (or a stranger, in line at a grocery store) some of the joy that comes from being a member of the church.