June 29th, 2009 by Joe

Today was a day to recharge after the last three long days. During the morning I reflected on many people in my life that still wrestle with “religion” versus “relationship with Jesus”. I pray the video of our concert last night really strikes a chord with you all. God never wanted us to be about the rules sometimes constructed by people in religion; He only wants US – He wants our fellowship and love. He is a kind and loving Father that wants our time, much as we want time with our own children.

Yes…going to church is important, in that our pastor will challenge our walk and teach us properly. We also need to surround ourselves with like-minded (Christian) people to help sharpen our faith and help us when we struggle and fall. I fear too many people are lost, as well-meaning believers chastise them for missing a Sunday service, or dancing, or _____ …you can fill in the blank. We need to lift each other up, in love and understanding daily. As the Holy Spirit fills our lives, we will be compelled to come to church and seek that relationship with our awesome Creator, who longs to be with us every minute of the day.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this…to join in on this blog, you create an account (very easy…I did it!), which keeps out the riff-raff…and post your comments. This blog, and this site, are meant to be a connecting place for us to discuss these ideas, share our faith, and share our lives together. Well…it’s after midnight out here, and the wonderful Hungarian people have flat-out worn me ragged as we toured the city of Budapest today! So, I bid you all a great night’s sleep; may our great God grant you a deep sleep, and a great week! Blessings.

Joe