Is Religion a Distraction?

Did the title make you sit up straight for a second? Please bear with me for a bit.

Have you ever heard someone dismiss church by saying that they,"are not about organized religion"? I've heard it so many times since the day I started college, I have always wanted to puke! Lately though, I tend to think that the sentiment, not necessarily the literal warrants merit. To completely and fairly walk through this contention, we must first define religion. Without running to any theological reference guide or Webster's dictionary, I would simply define religion as "a structure of people organized to a set of beliefs pertaining to a higher power whose function is to spread those beliefs, enhance member's beliefs, and to grow its membership."

Right or wrong, this is the definition we will use. (Can't believe that we're too far off on that one.) I prescribe to a Protestant Christian religion further broken down into a denomination or sect of that core structure. Those denominations are separated by differing interpretations of the Bible and religious worship. Some slant more heavily towards traditional aspects of religion, while others lean more towards "modern" worship and practices. These are generally fine, since we all have different comfort levels when it comes to worship, just like some learn better by reading and others from listening.

The contention I have is that in our religion (Protestant Christian), we expend so much energy defining the differences in each of our denominations, that we lose sight of what we all have in common. That is the recognition of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and our pursuit of following His teachings. We separate ourselves based upon who baptizes when, where, and why. We separate ourselves on the frequency of Communion, what to call it, what happens to the elements upon consumption, and who can partake. We separate ourselves on who can preach, pastor a church, teach a class. If we were all to take a step back, I have to believe that God is either laughing at us, or hurling lightning bolts around in frustration.

The words of Christ are designed for us all to comprehend and to follow. The way to Christ doesn't require a tent and three rings inside or even a higher level educational degree. It is simple and believers have separated other believers from an incredible fellowship on earth through their own pride and self-interests.

I saw a bumper sticker recently that said,"I am a Christian, not closed-minded." We all naturally probably went political with that. Easy to do, but can not that same statement apply to this discussion? Are we not only tolerant, but inviting and welcoming to members of other Christian denominations? We are to love all men, and be non-judgmental of other religions. However, there is a distinct difference in tolerating other religions and being loving and welcoming to those of your own. I grew up Southern Baptist and even through middle school thought anyone not Baptist was not joining me in Heaven. To a more subtle degree, don't we still act like that? Jokes are made in services about Methodists, or Catholics, or Baptists. Just like you don't make even half-joking barbs about others in front of your kids, you shouldn't make those at church. It only serves to further an unspoken chasm that already exists.

All I want to do is learn more about my faith, my Lord Jesus Christ. I want the spirit to dwell within me so that others will see Him and want to experience the same joy and peace I have been given.

I am thankful that we attend a church that is inclusive of others, but firm in their beliefs. I am thankful for our church leadership that i compassionate, caring, and open. I am thankful that our church opens its doors to any and all. Why aren't they all?

Please post any comments.