The R Word

“For in Christ, neither our most conscientious religion nor disregard of religion amounts to anything. What matters is something far more interior: faith expressed in love.” Galatians 5:6 - The Message

Are we letting our religion, or lack of religion, get in the way of Jesus?

In the stories about Jesus, we constantly see how the Pharisees let religion get in the way. All this week we have looked at the fact that our faith should be based on a relationship with Christ, not on a set of rules. This is hard for some of us that have had a church background in which following the rules was a main focus. Letting go of that has its challenges.

On the other hand, there are some of us that don’t care much for religion at all. We maybe spent some time with it and think its a load of… dirty diapers.

Well, in this passage, Paul is saying that either view of religion doesn’t matter. Whether you love rules, or hate religious systems, it does not matter. Our faith comes down to love. Paul says what matters is that our faith is expressed in love.

So, are you the type of person that loves the neat and clear cut structure of rules? Maybe it’s time to look where you are at and reorient yourself towards Christ as the center.

Maybe you are the type of person that doesn’t care for religion. That’s fine. But, is it keeping you from seeking Christ at all?

Wherever you are at in this, set all of that aside. Your religiousness is nothing. Jesus wants you to see Him. Jesus wants to be at the center of your heart and mind. Jesus doesn’t care what you think of religion. Jesus cares what you think of Him.

Take a few minutes and think about whether you feel you are leaning towards religiousness or a lack of it. What brought you to this point? How would it make you feel to let it go?

Now, take some time in prayer asking Jesus to help you reorient yourself so that He is at the center. Ask for strength and guidance as you seek Him today.