“When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’…’But what about you?’ He asked. ‘Who do you say I am?'” – Matthew 16: 13 & 15
There’s a moment at the beginning of every Christian’s faith journey when they realize they’ve been forgiven and washed clean by Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross. It’s the moment they give their life to Jesus and begin walking with Him. It’s the start of a relationship – or it should be. Too often the “moment” fades and life’s pressures and disappointments creep back in. That’s when we can find ourselves moving from relationship to religion.
What do I mean? Over time, we begin to learn HOW to behave and talk about our faith, but in the process, we forget WHO it is we’ve given our lives to. Slowly, we can move from a relationship with Jesus Christ to following a list of rules. If this sounds familiar, if you’re feeling stuck going through the motions rather than getting to know the person of Jesus Christ – there is a solution. The way from religion back to relationship begins with Jesus.
Focus on who Jesus is, His character and life, His teachings and promises. Remind yourself of the Jesus whom you encountered in that moment when you first decided to give your life to Him. Ask God to reignite that first love – not with a “religion” but with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
