Relationship vs. Religion

Above is a cross, one of the symbols of my Christian faith. However, symbols are just that: reminders. In and of themselves, they have no power. The true testimony of a Christian is their relationship with Jesus Christ. He has to be Lord of your life before any change can occur.

I think back to Ecclesiastes where we learn that without Christ, our works are meaningless. That sounds very direct, but it is true. We live life on this earth to further His kingdom and His love.

Take a different example, the example of religion. Religion being man's way trying to reach God, whereas Christianity is God reaching out to man.

The bottom picture shows an ancient burial ground in Ireland. The window to it lets in sunlight only once a year, at the winter solstice. Ironically, there are similar pyramiddic structures in the western hemisphere that also point toward winter and summer solstice. What were men trying to do? Who were they trying to please with their large structures, symbols and precision?

We can't do enough good works to please God. We must remember an important fact: Romans 3:31-23 (NIV); "21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."