A Mission Of Faith And Miracles

What if your life was interrupted, your comforts stripped away, and you were placed in one of the coldest, most remote regions of the world for two years? How would you find purpose in the rain, meaning in rejection, and strength in seemingly endless tasks? In this thought-provoking episode of Seekers of Christ, I sit down with Sterling Webster, a recently returned missionary from Chile, to explore how these very challenges shaped him.

Sterling’s story will make you reflect: What does it really mean to serve with diligence and devotion? How do you rely on Christ when the load feels too heavy? And, perhaps most importantly, what miraculous moments unfold when you least expect them?

About the Guest:

Sterling Webster recently returned from a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the southern region of Chile, known for its harsh weather and deep-rooted traditions. Serving in areas like Patagonia and La Tierra de Fuego, Sterling encountered a world vastly different from his own—one where the terrain was tough, but the spiritual rewards were rich. He brought his unique blend of strength and humility to the mission field, and in this episode, he shares the lessons learned along the way.

Learn about the preparation, cultural adjustments, and spiritual growth that comes from dedicating two years to missionary work. Whether you're contemplating a mission or seeking to strengthen your own faith, Sterling's testimony is sure to inspire and uplift.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

In this episode of Seekers of Christ, host Joe Cirillo interviews Sterling Webster, a returned missionary who served in the southern region of Chile for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Sterling shares the challenges and incredible experiences that shaped his mission, including overcoming hardships, witnessing miracles, and deepening his faith.

The Harsh Realities of Missionary Life

Sterling opens up about the mental and physical toll of his service. From sideways rain to biting cold, his journey was a constant test of endurance. Yet, he explains how these trials were not just struggles, but opportunities to grow closer to Christ.

Preparation vs. Reality

Sterling emphasizes that no one can fully prepare for the intensity of missionary work. “I didn’t know what a 16-hour workday really meant until I was in the middle of it,” he admits. His reflection on the gap between expectation and reality speaks to the transformative nature of missions.

Finding Miracles Amid Challenges

Despite the difficulties, Sterling witnessed miracles—both small and large. Whether it was receiving help in moments of exhaustion or seeing someone embrace the gospel after years of searching, these moments reinforced his faith and commitment.

Relying on Christ

A pivotal moment came when Sterling realized he couldn’t do it all. “I thought I could handle five assignments at once,” he shares, “but I was wrong. That’s when I learned the true meaning of relying on Christ’s strength.” His humility and vulnerability shine through as he recounts this powerful turning point.

The Power of Companionship

Sterling’s journey was not a solo one. He talks about the deep bonds forged with his companions—some of whom were struggling just as much as he was. In their shared purpose, they found unity, even when personality clashes made life difficult. “The solution to any problem was getting out and teaching,” he reflects.

Miracles in Unexpected Places

One of the most touching stories Sterling shares is of a woman who, despite her initial resistance, eventually reached out to him, asking for baptism. Her journey from hesitation to faith is a reminder of the quiet miracles that happen when you least expect them.

A Deeper Perspective on Missionary Work

This episode is more than a recount of Sterling's time in Chile—it's a testament to the life-changing power of faith, service, and reliance on God. As Sterling testifies, “You’ll learn more in two years on a mission than in a lifetime. It’s not just about teaching others; it’s about becoming someone new in Christ.”

Sterling’s words echo with depth and inspiration, reminding us that no challenge is insurmountable with Christ by your side. His journey is a testament to the divine miracles that await when you dedicate your life to serving others.