Wasting Converts

Look for how new converts fit into these verses.

 64 That the work of the gathering together of my saints may continue, that I may build them up unto my name upon holy places; for the time of harvest is come, and my word must needs be fulfilled.

 65 Therefore, I must gather together my people, according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory, when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father to reward every man according as his work shall be;

Doctrine & Covenants 101:64-65

These verses speak of “gathering” to “holy places” and then the wheat being secured in the “garners”.  Garners are what they formerly put wheat into so it would not go bad, and to keep pests from the precious wheat.  In Alma 26:5, speaking of their new Lamanite converts, Ammon said, “And they shall be gathered into the garners, that they are not wasted.”  How is your ward doing with the function of preserving the conversion of people that come into it? Is you ward a “holy place” or “garner” where new converts can come into the church and not be wasted?

Most return missionaries can speak to the different types of wards.  In some wards, when they brought an investigator to church, the person was immediately swept away with people introducing themselves to them, and people inviting them to come to the other meetings with them.  Then in other wards, people were so wrapped up in themselves, the missionaries wondered if a single person would say hello to their investigator.  We need to make our wards so that it is very likely that those who are new, will remain strong through friend-shipping, nourishing with the Word of God, and people looking out for them.

Today’s Takeaway: This coming Sunday, be on the lookout for faces you don’t recognize. Smile and introduce yourself. Help them feel welcomed. Let them become part of your circle of friends.