Religion’s definition: “a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects…” (Dictionary.com)
As Christians we often hear the phrase “it’s not about religion, it’s about a relationship!” True as that statement may be — Christianity it is still a religion. There are beliefs that need to be expressed through the actions of our faith. The things we practice in the name of Jesus Christ speak of His integrity to the world. They will say either “Well done! Good and faithful servant” or “Hypocrite!”
James 1:27 (NIV)
“27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
James reminds us that love conveyed through mercy is the purest action for expressing our faith. With mercy there is no judgment. In our Lord’s prayer he said “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…” If we love mercy and exercise it throughout our personal and corporate ministries, there would be no room for judgement. We would not have the time or inclination to form opinions about our neighbor. We would only see the needs that God’s mercy will fill through us. Thus, we are driven by our love and mercy in Christ to give our lives away.
