Shattering Triangles: Why We Keep Coming Back to the Same Questions

Hey everyone, it’s good to be connecting with you here in the Rogue Disciples community. As a returned missionary, I’ve seen firsthand the power of seeking truth, and how that pursuit often leads us down unexpected paths. Sometimes, it feels like we’re building a sturdy foundation, only to realize a few years later that we need to dig a little deeper, re-examine the mortar, and maybe even shift the whole design.

That’s precisely what’s at the heart of Todd McLaughlin and Josh Chandler’s 'Shattering Triangles' project, and it's something I've been thinking about a lot lately. As Latter-day Saints, we're encouraged to continually seek knowledge and understanding—to ask questions, to ponder, and to not be afraid to wrestle with difficult concepts. We’re reminded of that constantly throughout Preach My Gospel, and it's a cornerstone of the work.

I remember my own mission. There were times when I thought I grasped the nuances of the Restoration, the purpose of the Atonement, or the importance of family history. But years later, through continued study and experience, those understandings have been refined, challenged, and deepened. It’s not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of growth!

Todd and Josh’s project isn’t about dismantling faith; it’s about dismantling assumptions. It’s about recognizing that the gospel is a vast ocean, and we've only dipped our toes in the water. It's about embracing the discomfort of not having all the answers and the humility to admit when we need to revisit foundational concepts.

They’ve been on this journey together for a long time – I love the image of them in Denny’s back in the 90s, taking notes and struggling with the same questions we're grappling with today! That’s the beauty of sincere discipleship – the questions evolve, but the pursuit of truth remains constant.

The conversation they've opened up—and it’s a conversation that needs to include *all* of us—is vital for strengthening our testimonies and preparing the next generation of missionaries. Think about it: how many potential investigators are turned off, not by the gospel itself, but by the rigid, unyielding answers they receive from those who *think* they have all the answers?

Davee’s been helping me think through some of the common objections he hears from investigators – particularly when it comes to historical questions or challenging doctrines. One question he keeps surfacing is, “If the Church is so perfect, why are there so many changes in its history?” It's a fair question, and one that demands a thoughtful, nuanced response, not a defensive one. Understanding the 'Shattering Triangles' mindset – that willingness to revisit and re-evaluate—can equip us to answer these questions with grace and truth.

This isn’t just for those preparing to serve a mission. It’s for all of us. It's for the lifelong disciples who are constantly striving to become more Christlike. It’s for the parents who want to equip their children with the tools to navigate their own faith crises. It’s for the returned missionaries who want to deepen their own understanding and share it with others.

I encourage you to check out the 'Shattering Triangles' video and join the conversation. Let's be brave enough to shatter those comfortable triangles and embrace the ongoing journey of discipleship. And if you're feeling inspired to dig deeper, join us for the weekly Disciple Challenge. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with other truth-seekers and strengthen your commitment to the work.

Until next time, keep seeking, keep questioning, and keep striving to be the disciples the Lord calls us to be.