Being introduced to a person is a formality that we are all familiar with. After introductions, conversation begins and we either continue to grow in relationship with each other, or we never move beyond introductions. We can’t be in close relationship with everyone because of limitations of time and commitments. However, after being introduced or coming to know God, we all decide if this relationship is important to us or not. We may start attending a church to be with other like-minded people who want to know God. Unfortunately sometimes the teaching we come under can discourage us in our relationship and lead us to see God as a demanding taskmaster who is never satisfied.
But perhaps the greatest detriment to our relationship with God is never moving past formalities. Our relationship with God is a living relationship very similar to our relationship with close family and friends. We may at times feel guilty because we aren’t spending enough time with a loved one, but our relationship with our loved ones cannot be based on guilt or the ties that bind us together will weaken and become very fragile.
Our relationship with God is very similar. Are the formalities of the weekly church service actually hindering our relationship with God? Are some of us attending church every week and being introduced to God “in heaven” but never understanding that this God actually wants to live in us and be expressed through us? That is a pretty deep relationship! And it is the key to actually living the Christian life as a member of the body of Christ on earth. The other key is seeing our brothers and sisters (other believers) as members of the same body of Christ and accepting and growing in relationship with them: bearing with each other, edifying one another, rejoicing together, etc.
May God be glorified here on earth as the body of Christ comes to see who she is and grows in relationship with her Lord and with each other in his body! Amen.