followHIM Podcast Summary Episode: Called to Swerve • followHIM Favorites • June 30-July 6 • Come Follow Me
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the intricate themes of mission calls as outlined in sections 71 through 75 of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Come, Follow Me curriculum. Titled "Called to Swerve," the discussion underscores the often unpredictable nature of missionary assignments and the profound personal growth that comes from embracing divine redirection.

Exploring Sections 71-75 of Come, Follow Me

Hank and John begin by setting the stage with an overview of sections 71 through 75, highlighting the significant focus on mission calls found in section 75. They emphasize the complexities and nuances that come with being called to serve a mission, particularly during unprecedented times.

Hank: “In section 75, verse 6, William McClellan is called to go to the eastern countries. Then the Lord says in verse eight, no, go to the south countries.” (00:20)

This pivot in directive serves as a foundational example for the episode's exploration of being called versus being assigned—a distinction clarified by Elder David A. Bednar.

Mission Calls: Called vs. Assigned

Hank references Elder Bednar’s teachings to shed light on the distinction between being called to serve and being assigned to labor. This differentiation is crucial for understanding the personal agency and divine guidance involved in missionary work.

Hank: “I like how Elder Bednar has clarified that you're called to serve and then you're assigned to labor. And those are different things.” (00:33)

The Journey of Elder Cole Forsyth: A Case Study

A central narrative in the episode is the mission experience of Elder Cole Forsyth, whose service was profoundly affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Initially called to South Africa, Elder Forsyth's mission path took unexpected turns due to the pandemic's restraints.

John: “Elder Forsyth's mission began in South Africa. Then the pandemic hit. He was transferred home, where he could do nothing but wait for four and a half months.” (01:18)

During this period, Elder Forsyth grappled with uncertainty, praying, “Am I done? Do I go out?” but ultimately turned his waiting time into productive training as an EMT, showcasing resilience and adaptability.

Hank: “He worked as a security guard and began training as an EMT, completely unsure if he would be recalled.” (01:18)

After four and a half months, his mission was reassigned to Farmington, New Mexico, similar to South Africa in certain respects. There, his newly acquired EMT skills proved invaluable, demonstrating the unforeseen benefits of his redirected service.

Embracing Divine Redirection

Just as Elder Forsyth began to find his footing in New Mexico, he received another unexpected directive to return to South Africa. This continual shifting underscored the unpredictability of mission assignments but also highlighted the blessings that come from embracing these changes.

Hank: “Just as Elder Forsyth was getting comfortable and feeling capable in New Mexico, he was told, pack your bags. You're heading back to South Africa.” (01:36)

Elder Forsyth encapsulated his experience poignantly:

Elder Forsyth: “My mission was not what I expected, but it turned out more beautiful than what I had planned.” (02:20)

Relevance to Modern Missionaries

Hank and John discuss the parallels between Elder Forsyth’s experience and the challenges faced by young missionaries in recent years, who have had to adapt to modified missions due to global circumstances.

John: “Many young people over the last five years have had modified missions. Perhaps they might be thinking, well, wait, I thought I was called here. Am I really called?” (02:27)

Hank: “Yes, you're really called. But what does the Lord look at? You were willing to go. You submitted your name. You said, bishop, here's the papers. Call me. Call me on a mission and I'll go where you want me to go.” (02:41)

This reassurance reinforces the notion that divine calls come with inherent flexibility, allowing for reassignment without diminishing the legitimacy of the call.

Notable Quotes from the Episode

1. Hank on Elder Bednar’s Clarification:
   “I like how Elder Bednar has clarified that you're called to serve and then you're assigned to labor. And those are different things.” (00:33)

2. Elder Forsyth’s Reflection:
   “My mission was not what I expected, but it turned out more beautiful than what I had planned.” (02:20)

3. Hank on Answering the Call:
   “You were willing to go. You submitted your name. You said, bishop, here's the papers. Call me. Call me on a mission and I'll go where you want me to go.” (02:41)

Insights and Conclusions

The episode "Called to Swerve" offers deep insights into the nature of missionary service within the LDS framework, particularly emphasizing the importance of flexibility and faith when navigating unexpected changes. Through Elder Forsyth’s story, listeners are encouraged to view divine redirection not as a setback but as an opportunity for greater growth and fulfillment.

Hank: “It wasn’t what I expected, but it turned out more beautiful than what I had planned. Amen. Elder Forsyth. Good job.” (02:23)

Invitation to the Full Podcast

Hank and John invite listeners to engage further with their discussions on the full followHIM podcast, specifically highlighting the impactful work of Dr. Rosalind Welch in interpreting these sections.

John: “We are with Dr. Rosalind Welch this week. What she did with these sections really changed the view of them for me. And I know they did for you as well, John. We hope you'll join us there.” (03:03)

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the followHIM podcast on their preferred platforms, ensuring they receive ongoing insights and resources to enhance their Come, Follow Me studies.

Conclusion

"Called to Swerve" is a compelling episode that beautifully intertwines scriptural study with real-life missionary experiences, offering listeners both inspiration and practical wisdom. By sharing Elder Forsyth’s story, Hank and John effectively illustrate the profound ways in which God’s plans for us may diverge from our own, ultimately leading to greater blessings and personal development.

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