“I do not believe in religions?”

• Well this comment I have a difficult time understanding. How can you not believe in religions, that is like not believing in the Carolina Panthers? You might not like religions, or you might not wish to allign yourself with a particular religion. But they exist so it is impossible to say you do not believe in religions.

“All religions are man made.”

• For many professional religious people this statement causes a defense reaction. But actually this is accurate, and anyone who denies this fails to see the human aspect of religion. Religion (using this word in it’s broadest form, including the term “spirituality”) is humanity’s attempt to connect to something larger than themselves.

“Insitutions are corrupt.” (implied: individual spiritually is not.)

• Now our conversation has gotten to the heart of the matter. People are willing to argue for the corruption of institutions, but fail to place that corruption upon human responsibilities. Instead of admitting the culbality of individuals, which is only magnified in a instutional structure.

“Religions are for weak people.”

• Again, us religious professionals get upset by this statement and try to show how people of our faith, often ignoring that most religious adherents, are willing to lay down their life for their beliefs. But, again, this statement is accurate, but we disagree in regards to the result. For most Americans, to be called weak is threatening–and for males it is an affront to our understanding of masculinity. However, Christianity is for the weak…in the sense that we have to submit ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. We have to humble our personal pride and admit that we are incapable of “being good.” We seek a balm in Giledad that heals our lives, since we are incapable of healing ourselves.  As Paul says

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ~2 Cor 12:9

This is where the conversation ended. Why? Because we come to an impasse…to be in need is unacceptable for my friend. To rely upon myself and be alone is unacceptable to me.