I'm not sure what's up with me lately, but I've really been thinking a lot about faith. and belief. I stumbled upon the blog of a girl I went to school with. She talks all about her "personal journey" of leaving the church. I find it so intriguing to hear other people's points of view. And in some ways it makes me question mine. Would I be Mormon if I wasn't raised that way? I can't say I would, but I can't say I wouldn't. I feel extremely blessed to have been born into a loving, religious home. I have such supportive parents who have encouraged me in all that I've done, even if it hasn't been exactly what they would have wanted. I am grateful for their influence and example to me. I have faith that I can be all that Heavenly Father would have me be. And the only way I can do that is by creating and maintaining a relationship with Him.
Some people seem to think that organized religion, specifically the LDS church, is not a place to find Christ. And maybe that's because it is imperfect. That people in it are imperfect. I used to say that the church is perfect, but the people in it aren't. I'm not sure I believe that anymore. I know the Gospel of Jesus Christ is perfect, and that the church is a vehicle to bring me closer to Him. I know I feel His influence more in my life when I am living an active LDS lifestyle. I know there are many professed Mormons who have no true relationship with Christ. This is where this idea originates, I believe.
I don't believe you can just do the right things and get to the celestial kingdom. I believe it is about becoming a Christlike person. Moroni 7:48. We only become the inheritors of the Kingdom if we are filled with love. As a member of the Church, I feel like all the things I do, or don't do are motivated by love. Or, they can be, but I'm imperfect.
I just have a hard time with people who leave the church because they see imperfections in the people. Or too much discussion about the what we do, rather than the why we do it. However, I think we see this in other churches as well. They may have a different view of what is right, or what they should be doing. But, I would much rather be serving in some capacity than singing praises all day. Maybe that is wrong, but I feel like it is the example Christ set. Yes, he worshiped Heavenly Father, and taught truth, but most of his praising and teaching were done by the example he set. The parables he shared of caring and loving, and doing and being, and BECOMING!
Amen. My friend's husband has gone inactive for many reasons you listed. Too much analysis and not enough personal attempts at faith. Thanks for posting. You always have a great way with words my dear! Love you!
ReplyDeleteLove this. My dad always told me that whatever church brings you closest to God is the church you should go to. I've always appreciated that statement and it has allowed me to keep an open mind.
ReplyDeleteOur relationship with Christ is truly the most important thing. I've been thinking a lot about how personal that journey is for every individual and how your personal journey isn't always evident to others around you. Surely your actions can speak for something, but a relationship with Christ is sacred and often acquired through very personal experiences.