religion vs. relationship

This month at Crossroads, we've been learning about Soul Cravings. Several points that Jeremy has shared complement what I have already been learning (and unlearning!) on my own faith journey. For instance, I've been reminded that religion teaches the conditions of God's love & how I mght attain it. Religion teaches me how to follow a system to earn God's love. Religion says, "If you do these things, God will love you." The conditional criteria might be a manner of dress, a rosary, church involvement,monetary gifts, disciplines of prayer, reading, meditation, righteous living, church attendance, etc. The conditions differ depending on what religion you choose to follow! I lived this way for many years of my Christian life! It was a continual struggle for me, because either I didnt' feel worthy enough for God's love & favor, or other Christians made me feel that way because they were buying into the system, also! I understand now that God's love is UNCONDITIONAL. It isn't based on what I do or don't do. This is a truth that I have to remind myself of almost daily - both for my own relationship with God, and also in how I view others around me.