I’m Jacob, a radiologist and another gay guy trying to figure out my place in the church. While this clip is a few years old now, it still effectively conveys some of the angst that I encounter during my regular “wrestle with God.” I strive to stay close to the inherently good teachings of the church because I have a testimony of the practical goodness that they can bring. I have seen many wonderful things during my mission and throughout my life.

Through daily study and prayer I endeavor to find the Lord’s specific will for me in my journey. When asked what I need from members and leadership within the church, I respond with something that may be piercing: I need a practical place, not PR prepared platitudes. If all we can say to our LGBT brothers and sisters is that they “have a place in the church” and yet nobody seems to know how or where, no wonder people look elsewhere! The question is, in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, do we believe a God who knows us individually and has a plan for each of us, or not? If we don’t, then there are plenty of other churches I could attend….ones with much better snacks. ?

I wake up each day with the hope and faith that the Lord DOES know me and is guiding my path as long as I earnestly seek His will. If you ever run into me, come say hello!

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This In My Own Words story is a contribution from Let’s Love Better, a Facebook group dedicated to helping people learn to better share love, while fostering an atmosphere of understanding.  When we know better, we do better.