Religion

Interestingly enough, throughout history it is "religion" that has been at the base of many conflicts. "Religion" has claimed rule over peoples and has abused the very existence of others. Please understand that I am using the term "religion" in a broader since meaning that which we, as mankind, have made out of God's law and ways. When mercy and love are removed from a God relationship, "religion" is what is left.
So what kind of experience are we suppose to have with God, our Father? Scripture tells us that God call us His Children, Friends, the Redeemed, even His Family. Those titles are indicative of a relationship born of love and grace. We were born to walk with Him and talk with Him...to be a companion with Him. Because He is holy, we must strive to be holy. That is done through a relationship...not a set of man-generated dos and dont's. How hard it is for us to let go of control and just love God with all our hearts following His ways and His desires.
In this Holy of Holiest seasons we are reminded of Jesus' sacrifice given of His free will so that we might have a relationship with God. To die for someone demonstrates a relationship...not a set or rules or rituals. In these next coming days, let us each examine our beliefs. Let's make sure our Faith is based on relationship and not "religion". When this sinks into our finite minds, everything changes...how we respond to God and how we respond to others. They will know us by our love (a relationship) not our "religion".