The Way Love Is - Romans 11:1-6

Topics: God, Father, Prodigal, Love

Beloved Rebel,

Believe it or not, I too find religion boring - extremely boring. In fact, I often find it annoying. Has it occurred to you that I might be interested in many other subjects? I AM. My range of interest just might even be wider than yours! I like various sports, arts, writing and music - and jokes. And although some would be shocked to hear it, I enjoy theatre and dancing immensely.

And why not? I AM the Inventor, if you recall. I also happen to be very fond of animals. Or haven't you noticed? Oh yes, I AM an incurable bird watcher and sparrows are some of My favorites. Geography and astronomy never cease to interest Me, and I also delight in chemistry and micro-biology. No doubt you have observed this.

Yet, like yourself, I AM repelled by meaningless rituals and routines. The realm of organized religion is very dull and drab, I think. Its goals and interests are mostly unrelated to Mine. If I attend a religious event, I do so strictly from a sense of duty - you can be sure of that. I make it a policy to attend only if I AM invited. So, as you can surmise, I rarely go at all. By that I mean My heart is not in it. In one sense it would be impossible for Me not to be there. Perhaps this is what might be called one of the less fortunate aspects of being omnipresent?

We have more in common than you think! I find flowery speeches a bore, tradition tedious and I hate religiosity. But I do love people. That is why I can't just simply give up on the Church. But isn't that the way love is? Love doesn't have an "off and on" switch. At least, My kind never has.

Besides, when I think of the Church, I think of My family. In My view, the religious rat race is a universe removed from what the Church is really about. Keep an open mind and an open heart. I AM arranging some new contacts I think you're going to like.

All My Love,

Dad

Charles Slagle

(Inspirational submitted by: Jenny Toh)