Clay in the Hands

Christianity is often labeled as a belief system of requirements complete with a laundry list of “do’s” and “don’ts.”  People protest “religion” because it is a system designed by humanity that sometimes takes the place of God all the while claiming to be the avenue by which we can reach the creator.  And often, this system is virtually impossible to follow.  It can lead to frustration and confusion.  The result has been a movement to reject organized religion.  Those doing so have grown in numbers to the point there is a name for them – the “nones.”

Unfortunately, the claim that religion is a problem is often true.  Religion can become a hinderance to an authentic relationship with God if we let it.  But don’t throw out the baby with the baptismal bath waters.  Hebrews 10:25 reminds us to never turn away from the gathering of like-minded believers together in order that we might encourage one another along this journey in The Way.

We are relational creatures.  We were created with a need for one another and even more so – a need for God.  So organized religion can serve a purpose.  We are called to be salt in a tasteless world and light in a dark existence – and we can fulfill that calling more effectively together.

But the question remains, “What does God expect from me?”

It is true, humanity has built elaborate systems to try and answer this question.  But the reality is – the answer is extremely simple.  Micah 6:8 boils down the entirety of the Christian walk into a single verse:

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
    And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
    and to walk humbly with your God.

There it is – act as we should, love mercy and walk humbly with God.  God seeks a relationship with you.  God wants to walk with you along this journey and guide you to live as you should and to be a person that is know for your humility and mercy.  And we can lean on one another along the way and learn from one another as well.

So how are you doing.  How is your relationship with the Father progressing?

Be a blessing today.