Finding the Divine in the Mundane: Lessons from Hobby Lobby and the Gospel

It’s funny, isn’t it? You think you’re going to find profound spiritual revelation while studying ancient scripture, or maybe deep in a quiet moment of prayer. And those moments are precious, truly. But sometimes, the Spirit nudges you to look at the most baffling, mundane places—like a trip to Hobby Lobby, or trying to figure out what 'Coke Zero' even is.

The other day, I was reflecting on some conversations I overheard, and it really struck me how often the Gospel isn't found in grand pronouncements, but in the messy, everyday reality of life. We’re talking about things like paint-by-numbers kits, the sheer mystery of glitter, and the way a simple family interaction can mirror the profound weight of Christ’s Atonement.

The Ripple Effect of Good News

The conversation touched on how Jesus’ death, in just 72 hours, solved the biggest problems humanity has ever faced: sin and death. It’s a concept so massive, so all-encompassing, that trying to explain it feels like trying to fit the entire celestial kingdom into a tiny, brightly colored craft kit. It’s overwhelming, but that’s the beauty of it!

When we talk about the plan of salvation, we're talking about the ultimate solution to the greatest problem. And just like the Gospel solves our biggest problems, it has a way of bringing light into the most unexpected corners—even the corner where someone is trying to figure out if a soda is zero sugar or if it’s just vapor!

It reminds me of something we talk about constantly in our missionary discussions: that the Gospel isn't just a set of doctrines; it's a way of seeing the world. It’s seeing the divine pattern even when the immediate environment—be it a crowded store or a family gathering—is pure chaos.

Being Unashamed Anywhere

The core message that keeps echoing through these discussions, and one that feels so vital for us rogue disciples today, is simply: Be unashamed. We are called to be disciples everywhere—in the grocery aisle, at the family picnic, or even when we’re trying to decipher the latest pop culture reference.

This isn't about being loud, though sometimes the Spirit does call us to be bold! It’s about having a quiet, steady confidence in the truth we know. It’s about knowing that no matter what the cultural landscape throws at us—whether it’s a confusing product name or a complex social situation—the truth of the restored gospel remains solid.

If you’re feeling the weight of the work, or maybe you’re gearing up for your own mission prep, remember that the Spirit is your guide. Don't be afraid to ask the hard questions, and don't be afraid to let someone else ask them of you. That’s where the real learning happens.

A Bite-Sized Skill for the Internet Missionary

As you go about your day, I want to challenge you to practice 'The Gentle Redirect.' If a conversation veers into pure, baffling pop culture—like the difference between a real coke and a 'coke zero'—don't get bogged down in the minutiae. Acknowledge it with a smile, and then gently pivot. You might say, "Wow, that is complicated! You know, it reminds me of how complex the covenants are, but the beautiful part is that the covenant path is so clear because of Christ." It’s a bridge back to the Savior.

If you want to deepen this kind of conversation, I highly recommend checking out the Social Scripture Study layer in LivingBook. Sometimes seeing how others are highlighting verses related to covenants or divine simplicity can give you the perfect pivot point!

For those of you who are ready to dig deeper into the principles of the Atonement, I found a couple of passages in Iron Rod that really resonated with this theme of ultimate restoration. If you haven't read them, take some time this week.

If you want to keep the momentum going, join us for our weekly Disciple Challenge this Saturday! We’ll be talking about how to keep the Spirit present when things feel most mundane. More details are linked below!