No Medal Can Replace What I Gained from Serving a Mission

Before I served a mission, I was a competitive athlete training for a spot in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. I had worked hard for years, and I was already at the peak of my athletic career. The national team was almost within reach.

But when I reached mission age, I had to make a choice: continue chasing my athletic dream or serve a full-time mission.

A lot of people assumed it was a difficult decision, but for me, it wasn’t. I didn’t struggle choosing the mission.

Ever since I was young, my mother always reminded me to prepare for missionary service. So when the time came, the answer was already clear. Even if I was at the highest point of my athletic journey, I didn’t hesitate. The Lord came first.

Looking back, I can see how being an athlete prepared me for missionary life.

I was already used to waking up early, following a strict schedule, and managing my time. So when I got to the mission field, I didn’t struggle with planning, discipline, or daily routines. The same dedication I had as an athlete became the dedication I needed as a missionary. What used to be physical endurance turned into spiritual endurance.

No trophy can replace the spiritual experiences I gained.

Serving a mission gave me something far greater than a medal. I saw miracles that strengthened my faith. I felt the Spirit teach and guide me. I witnessed how God had already prepared the people we taught and baptized. I came to know Jesus Christ in a deeper, more personal way. I understood His Atonement beyond words.

No competition could give me that. No podium could match it. That’s something only the mission gave me.

Prepare in all aspects not just spiritually, but also physically, mentally, and emotionally. A mission is worth every sacrifice.

“And whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25)

Whatever you temporarily leave—school, career, sports, work—the Lord will return it to you in better ways. I’ve seen that in my own life. Everything I left behind was given back to me, multiplied. Every sacrifice for the Lord is never really lost.

JORDAN LOBOS
Philippines Butuan Mission
April 2023 - April 2025