Apparently my brother-in-law knows that it’s easier for me to rant and rave than to offer any viable solutions. He recently offered these comments and questions in response to my posts regarding losing my religion:
…How can followers of Jesus make a difference in the church without slipping into the subtle traps of religiosity? It's too easy to walk away, and I don't think that's a valid solution. How do we stay, and make a difference? Is it just a matter of quiet faithfulness over a long period of time? I'm not expecting a pat answer, just wondering your thoughts… Dan
It would be easy to walk away, wouldn’t it? I only wish there wasn’t a warning in the Bible about walking away being proof that we never belonged in the first place. The fact is that organized church is where most followers of Jesus regularly meet. I may not like fast food, but if the consensus in my family is to hang out at the local McGreasy King, then you’ll know where to find me. I’ll be the one ordering a side salad [totally hypothetical- I’m a french fry guy all the way].
I’m guessing that Dan put the words just and faithfulness together to poke me a bit. The idea of faithfulness being the least our virtues is really quite funny. Anyone who has caused God as much grief as I have knows that the definition of faithful is probably closer to obstinate devotion than resigned boredom or frustration. So yes Dan, I think obstinate devotion is critically Christlike.
The key for us is deciding ahead of time what exactly it is we are devoted to.
Are we devoted to our theological heritage? I hope not, because that assumes we don’t have too much left to learn. What about our worship service preferences? I’m not even going to… never mind.
Be devoted to Jesus alone. Like other long term relationships, this one will require us to constantly adjust our comfort zones, personal space, and priorities in order to remain vibrant.
I hope that doesn't sound like a pat answer. I know it's simple, but also understand that it isn't easy.
