Faith vs. Religion

If you have heard the phrase “He or She’s got the religion now!” you know it’s used to describe a person who has become very attached to an idea, cause, or sports team. Their devotion is similar to a religious adherent’s and is probably just below fanatical. They are convinced they have found THE truth and will not be swayed. I have been trying to live healthier this new year, and as I look over the Internet and book shelves for guidance, I can testify to the religious fervor that resides in this area. From opinions on whether or not to eat gluten, sugar,  & dairy products to exercise regimens, there are people with such fanatical opinions that it would make even the most ardent church-goer say “ They've really got the religion.” Now, if you think I am going to lament that we should have the same religious devotion to Lutheranism, you’re wrong. I don’t want you “get the religion” for Luther or Jesus. After all, we are not called to have religion; we are created to have faith. There is a big difference between the two.

Religion is set, ritualistic and closed. It has all the answers and it demands that all people conform to certain practices, behaviors and beliefs. It is tied to fixed systems that do not change. Faith is moving, living and open. It is tied up in relationship and living your life in a way that is flexible, so that you can respond to the needs of others and the call of the one you are in relationship with: Jesus Christ. Religion is dead and is all about the practitioner. Faith is alive and all about God and others. Certainly there are religious elements to our faith, but the robes, liturgies and practices are not the point, but rather they are ways that point and direct us towards the one who matters: God the Father, Son, & Holy Spirit. Our faith is defined by that relationship. It molds and changes us, so we can better serve and love our God and his people.

We are called to have a “living breathing FAITH” (to quote ELCA Bishop Hanson) that is active in our churches, in our homes and in our communities. We do not have all the answers, nor do we pretend to. We do not even demand others conform to our particular way of living. Rather we invite them to experience what we have found to be true and holy and life giving. We draw them into the community that proclaims Christ crucified and risen and help them find a faith of their own. Our faith is flexible like a green living tree. We have central creeds, beliefs and the Word of God, but they do not bind us, rather they ground us, guide us & give us a foundation. This faith allows us to express it in ways that are meaningful in this time and in this place and yet remain faithful to the ancient beliefs God’s people. It is allows us to withstand the storms of life without breaking and to become stronger from the trials we face. It is faith that is worth sharing with the world, and it is faith that connects us with our Creator.

So have faith, not religion. Be alive with Christ, not dead in your own rituals. Hold fast to what is true, holy and central, but be flexible so God can continue to mold and shape you to His call. Don’t worry if you are still searching for answers, the best and most faithful Christians lived and died doing the same. Simply look at what has given you life and hope, what has fed you and strengthened you to be a child of God. There you will find a faith worth sharing, and there you find our God speaking to your heart and soul.