Matthew 23:13-36

Christianity is not a destination. What it means to be a real Christian is often defined in two very different ways. One is overly simple, the other much more complex. One is based solely upon what one believes (or faith), the other is built upon a series of moral and ethical behaviors, faithfulness to the “laws” of the Church, and how one participates in the worship, service, and discipleship parts of Church. Both have centuries of Bible, theology, and tradition behind them. Both believe they are the “right” and only way.

And then in-between are the literally thousands of ways each able to justify their perspective. (And where the tens of thousands of denominations and independent churches come in.)

One of the easiest things we do as persons of faith is to claim our spot, our rightness, our own sense of holiness on this broad spectrum of faith and then look down our noses at everyone else who doesn’t think like us.

But what happens when someone comes along teaching ways that challenge our position and perspective? It often creates a crisis of faith and confidence.

This is what is happening between the Pharisees and Jesus, and often between Jesus and us!

I grew up in a faith tradition (Evangelical United Brethren) that focused on faith AND a whole bunch of rules that had to be kept strictly if we wanted to get into heaven. What I have experienced and found over decades of study, seminary, practical ministry with thousands of people, and life experience is that being a “real” Christian is both simple AND complex at the same time; that simple faith in Christ plus focusing on the right things (the most important) is where Jesus really wants us to be…on a journey of faith.

Being a Christian today is challenging mostly because it often requires us to unlearn a bunch of stuff (or simply let go of it) before we can embrace the things Jesus taught. This life Jesus brings begins with grace (unmerited favor gifted to all of us) and our faithful response (taking up our cross) by focusing on the “more important matters…justice, peace, and faith.”

In fact, we just may find that growing our faith while working towards justice for all people and expanding peace among us and between us is going to feel like holy work as it draws us ever closer to Christ along the way.

The Way, as Jesus’ first followers were called, is just that, a journey, to holiness, and to the very heart of God.

Just don’t get bogged down in the details, especially the ones that really don’t matter.  - Chris