Religion. The reason behind many atrocities in our world. We sit on opposite sides of a table and spew hate at each other while claiming that we are closer to God than the other. We twist scriptures to formulate doctrine that advance our selfish ambitions; while our hearts are void of love and concern for others. History has captured some of the most heartless acts of humans against one another, done in the name of God. One of the most frightening scriptures in the Bible begs us to evaluate what knowing God looks like- lest we be shocked on the last day:
“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in Your name and performed many miracles in Your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’ [ Matthew 7:21-23 NLT]
Cambridge dictionary has one of many definitions of religion thrown around: ‘A personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices.’ I refuse to relegate my walk of faith and relationship with God to an organized framework of beliefs and practices.
One day, I discovered that there is a God who has been loving me before I was kissed with the breath of life. He patiently pursued me, showing up in every detail of my jumbled mess called life. His love soothes the wounds and bruises of my shattered heart. He loves me unconditionally and extended an invitation for me to do life with Him. I said yes. I found this journey to be less about behavior modification and more about heart transformation. The latter ultimately leads to some recalibration. I found me when I found Christ.
My Father opens and closes doors for me. Redirects my steps when I go astray and gently woos me back in times of wandering. He sits with me in the trenches and fights for me in the most unexpected ways. It has been a ride ,but I would never have it any other way. I don’t call that religion- I call it relationship.
“Live in me. Make your home in Me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can’t bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can’t bear fruit unless you are joined with Me. I’ve loved you the way My Father has loved Me. Make yourselves at home in My love.” [ John 15:4,9]
*** Thanks for reading
Restored Hearts 
Absolutely! A deep relationship with God, could never be a religion, but a love beyond comprehension!
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