Podcast Summary: followHIM – "Are You the One? • followHIM Favorites • February 17 - 23 • Come Follow Me"
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Podcast Title: followHIM
Episode Title: Are You the One? • followHIM Favorites • February 17 - 23 • Come Follow Me
Introduction
In this episode of followHIM, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the heart of missionary work within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, focusing on the themes presented in Doctrine and Covenants sections 12 through 17. Titled "Are You the One?," the episode explores the profound experiences and challenges faced by missionaries, drawing from real-life stories to inspire and educate listeners preparing for their weekly Come, Follow Me lessons.
Key Topics Discussed
1. Gathering Israel and Missionary Purpose
The discussion begins with the hosts emphasizing the paramount importance of gathering Israel, an enduring mission for members of the LDS Church. Hank Smith underscores this by referencing President Nelson's teachings, stating, "This is the greatest work you can do," highlighting the eternal significance of missionary efforts.
2. Missionary Challenges and Resilience
John Bytheway introduces a compelling story from Chris Stewart's book, Missionary Miracles, to illustrate the emotional and spiritual trials missionaries often face. He recounts the experience of Chase Gunnell, a missionary serving in Ukraine, who encountered his most challenging day during his mission.
Chase Gunnell's Story:
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Initial Struggles: Chase describes Saturday as "the hardest day I have had on a mission yet," where he faced increased hostility and a sense of futility in his efforts to proselytize, particularly because it coincided with his sister Dana and her husband Nate’s wedding.
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Despair and Determination: Feeling discouraged by unwelcoming interactions, Chase turned to prayer, seeking solace and guidance. He prayed, "Are you doing everything you need to do to find that person He was preparing?" (00:48).
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Divine Comfort and Revelation: At approximately 7:00 PM, Chase experienced a profound spiritual encounter. He received a heartfelt letter from home, symbolizing the love of his family, followed by a deeper connection with Heavenly Father's love. He shares, "This was one of the most touching experiences of my life" (02:45).
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Divine Purpose Revealed: Through divine revelation, Chase learned, "I've prepared a person today and that person is you. You said this is the day that you would show your love to me. I was testing you to see if you really do love me and you passed." This affirmation strengthened his resolve, transforming his perception of the day's hardships (03:00).
Notable Quote:
“The answer I received was Chase. Heavenly Father was preparing you, and that made me think of that beautiful story.” – Hank Smith (03:12)
3. Interpretation of Doctrine and Covenants
The hosts discuss the interpretation of Doctrine and Covenants, particularly focusing on the directive to "bring souls to me" and "be one soul to me." They ponder whether this directive emphasizes missionary work outwardly or introspective personal growth.
John Bytheway muses, "I wonder if he might be just talking about ourselves," suggesting that gathering Israel also involves personal spiritual development (03:12).
4. Encouragement and Inspirational Insights
Throughout the episode, both hosts offer encouragement to listeners who may be preparing for their missions or missionary lessons. They emphasize resilience, faith, and the importance of divine support in overcoming challenges.
Hank Smith reflects on Chase's transformation, noting that despite the initial hostility, "the people that were yelling at me didn't bother me anymore. I knew I was doing the will of the Lord" (02:50).
Conclusions and Takeaways
The episode concludes with the hosts reinforcing the idea that divine support and personal faith are essential in navigating the trials of missionary work. They encourage listeners to trust in Heavenly Father's plan and to seek strength through prayer and reflection.
Hank Smith encapsulates the episode's message by stating, "Heavenly Father said, actually I was preparing you," highlighting the purpose behind life's challenges and the growth that comes from overcoming them (03:12).
Additional Resources
Listeners are invited to explore more in-depth discussions on the followHIM full podcast, available on all major podcast platforms. This episode features insights from Dr. Wendy Ulrich, who provides expert analysis on the discussed Doctrine and Covenants sections.
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Note: The followHIM Podcast is an independent initiative and is not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The views expressed represent those of the guests and podcasters alone.