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Growing up in a Christian home, I always knew serving a mission was “the right thing to do.” My parents, friends, and mentors spoke often about its importance, not only for my own growth, but for blessing the lives of others. As a child, I promised I would go.
But as I grew older, that desire faded. By the time I graduated senior high school, I couldn’t see myself as a missionary at all. I even avoided going to church because I didn’t want to answer questions about my plans. I felt myself drifting, not only from church, but from God.
I decided to focus on my dream of studying at BYU Hawaii and worked hard to prepare. When my job application was rejected twice, I felt crushed. Then one night on my way home, a quiet thought crossed my mind: “What if I served a mission instead?” I pushed it away quickly, I had already made up my mind never to serve. But that small thought began to grow.
A few weeks later, I attended an activity that toured the training center for missionaries. I only went to help the youth, expecting nothing for myself. But in the simplest place, the laundry room, I felt God speak to my heart. I knew: this is what I’m supposed to do.
I started my application expecting the process to move quickly. But after completing all my requirements, weeks passed with no call. Then I was told my application was on hold for review because of information I’d shared about my mental health. For months, I spoke with counselors and doctors to make sure I was ready to serve.
This waiting period was one of the hardest tests of my life. I had finally regained the desire to serve, and now God was making me wait. But looking back, I see that it wasn’t wasted time, it was preparation. I strengthened myself spiritually by studying scripture, attending gospel classes, and even working through emotional resilience courses. I came to understand that God doesn’t just want willing missionaries, He wants prepared ones.
Why am I so determined to serve? Because I have been blessed with the knowledge of Jesus Christ and His gospel. His sacrifice has lifted me through every trial, and I want to share that same love, hope, and peace with others. I want to help people discover that God never leaves us, no matter how strong the storms feel.
Now, as I prepare to serve in the Philippines Cebu Mission, I am filled with excitement. I look forward to meeting people, learning a new language, and growing closer to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Most of all, I’m excited to help others feel God’s love in their lives and to change myself in the process.
To anyone unsure about serving a mission, I say this: don’t close the door completely. Even if it doesn’t feel right today, stay open to the possibility. God works in quiet, unexpected ways. If you seek Him, He will guide you and you’ll never walk alone.
ELDER ESMUNDO
Philippines Cebu Mission
(September 2025 - September 2027)