What's my mission, in life? If God wants me here, what should I be doing?
Three mission physicals. Two ecclesiastical endorsements. Zero mission calls.
What now?
I worked hard to submit my papers, anxiously waiting for a call. I imagined opening a large, white envelope and unfolding a letter that read: “You are hereby called to…” My hand would fly to cover my mouth as I spoke the name of my mission. Cheers and screams would erupt from loving family members, and I’d burst into tears.
None of that happened.
After a few weeks of waiting, I was denied a mission call because of medical concerns. I was told I could try again later, but it felt like a hard no. I was crushed.
I was so eager to serve and share the gospel of Jesus Christ! But I felt like I was being told I wasn’t capable. Friends and family members offered words of comfort, but I still felt discouraged, and ashamed.
I wondered, ‘What am I supposed to do with my life?’
A Shift in Perspective
Where I saw a straightforward path, Heavenly Father saw a winding traverse, leading me to people, places, and experiences I wouldn't have guessed. After some time, I began to see my life differently.
I lacked a formal mission call, but I was still called to the work. Moving forward, I focused on the simple things, like reading my scriptures and ministering to others. Little by little, I felt my testimony grow. I became curious about the temple endowment—ready to deepen my connection to Christ.
So, I prepared to receive my endowment, regardless of whether I served a mission or not. That decision greatly blessed my life. My endowment taught me that I didn't have to wait to make a difference. My mission was now!
You Can Be Just as Impactful
Author Clayton M. Christensen writes, “We all accepted God’s call to serve as member missionaries when we were baptized. We become pure disciples of Christ when sharing the gospel becomes part of all that we do.” [i]
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you can share the gospel at any phase of life! Missionaries find, baptize, love, and teach—but their missions end after 18–24 months. Is the call to serve over? No, of course not! The call remains the same, even though the location may be different.
As members, missionary work is our responsibility, too. There’s no time limit on how much you love, share, and invite. You can minister to your neighbor, spend valuable time with your parents, and listen to your close friends. You can participate in a quiet Sunday School lesson, send a loving text, invite friends to a young adult activity, or be an example of Christlike love. This list is endless!
As President Russell M. Nelson states, “Anytime we do anything that helps anyone—on either side of the veil—take a step toward making covenants with God and receiving their essential baptismal and temple ordinances, we are helping to gather Israel.” [ii]
Missionary work doesn’t require a name tag. It only requires a desire to serve (see Doctrine and Covenants 4:3).
You Are Here for a Reason
Not serving a proselyting mission caused me to wonder: “If God wants me here, what should I be doing? What’s my mission in life?” This question completely changed the way I live my life—my priorities, my focus, and even how I find fulfillment.
As I’ve prayed and pondered what God would have me do, I’ve received answers. I’ve prayed to become aware of my spiritual gifts, and how I may use them that all may be benefited thereby (see Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–12). I encourage you to pray to learn your spiritual gifts so you can better lift and serve where you stand.
I echo the words of President Camille N. Johnson of the Relief Society General Presidency: “Sisters and brothers, do you comprehend the impact you stand to make?’
Whether you are on a mission, thinking about one, returning from one, or unable to serve one, I urge you to ponder what your lifelong mission is. You are where you are for a reason. God has granted you with unique gifts, talents, and challenges to learn from. How will you use them for good, wherever you may be?
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