The GOAT of Service Missions - Elder Mason Thundstrom

This episode of the "Mission Stories Podcast" features Elder Mason Thunstrom, a returned missionary who initially served in the Chile Santiago West mission before returning home due to health challenges to serve as a full-time service missionary in Carlsbad, California. Shawn, greatly impressed by Elder Thunstrom's enthusiasm and presentation on service missions, aims to explore principles that lead to a "marvelous work and a wonder" mission experience, contrasting those who thrive with those who struggle.

The episode delves into two core principles:

• The Word of God Answers Every Question: The host explains that a missionary's primary tool is the Holy Ghost, which is activated when individuals feast upon the words of Christ. Elder Thunstrom shares his personal journey of embracing this principle:

    ◦ He grew up in the gospel but faced high school pressures that forced him to move beyond a "lukewarm" faith and deliberately choose to "feast upon the word of Christ".

    ◦ This was a day-to-day, consistent decision motivated by a need for daily spiritual strength and a desire to grow as a disciple, not just be a "passive bystander".

    ◦ He began by dedicating specific time to scripture study and continually asking, "What message are my actions sending to God?".

    ◦ Despite initial challenges, this consistent effort gradually brought him joy, peace, and revelation, reinforcing his belief that "the trick is just keep going. Keep trying".

    ◦ The host corroborates this with his own pre-mission experience, where direct answers didn't come immediately, but an overwhelming desire to read scriptures daily led to profound spiritual changes and answers over time.

• "You Can't Bring Me Down" (Dealing with Hardships): This principle emphasizes maintaining happiness and faith despite inevitable challenges. Elder Thunstrom highlights that knowing God's personality as a loving Heavenly Father who has a perfect plan for our growth is crucial for remaining joyful and peaceful through trials. This understanding also helps individuals know their own divine identity as children of God.

    ◦ Elder Thunstrom shares his lifelong battle with chronic health issues. Despite a patriarchal blessing promising a full-time mission, his health made serving challenging.

    ◦ He testifies that his call to Chile was a miracle and that mission calls are "very personal," with God placing missionaries exactly where they need to be for their growth and to bless others.

    ◦ While in Chile, his health significantly worsened due to a severe mold exposure. He continued to serve despite physical and mental exhaustion, spiritually "all in" even when his flesh was weak.

    ◦ Upon seeking guidance about returning home, he received an unexpected answer: "I trust you," which, while initially confusing, empowered him to make the decision himself.

    ◦ His consistent scripture study provided immense peace during this difficult period of doubt and physical suffering.

    ◦ Now serving a service mission at home, Elder Thunstrom finds peace in his decision, recognizing that God has a work for him there, even as his health continues to be challenging. He serves in the temple and continues to learn and grow, emphasizing that God uses willing instruments to bless others, multiplying their small efforts to "feed thousands". He concludes by stating that putting oneself in the work allows God's love and joy to "splash" upon them.