August 15

What Is Religion?

“Do you still not understand?” Jesus asked. — Matt 15:16 BSB

In this chapter, our Lord teaches that true religion is not a matter of outward ceremonies, like eating or drinking. It is about the soul’s intention—the continual drawing of life and strength from Christ for our service to others. It’s like a diver who explores the ocean floor but depends on the air from the surface to survive.

Jesus didn’t dismiss the outward practices of religion. He set an example for us by attending synagogue and temple services, spending nights in prayer, and constantly referring to Scripture. But these outward practices were expressions of His unbroken fellowship with His Father. Love, too, is not just about outward displays but the deeper intention of the heart. Still, without outward expression, love’s wellspring may dry up.

Perhaps the two greatest definitions of pure religion are these: The first from the Old Testament, "Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God." And the second from the New Testament, "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." To live out these principles, we need the aid of the Holy Spirit.

True religion is within everyone’s reach, but we must avail ourselves of what Christ has done to bring us to God. In Him, there is absolute forgiveness for the past and infinite grace for the future. He is willing to be our Surety, Friend, and Helper. Through Him, we can partake in the divine nature and escape the corruption of the world.

Prayer

Give me, gracious Lord, the spirit of a pilgrim, that I may be in the world but not of it. Grant me the grace to resist the fleshly desires that war against my soul. May I always walk in a way worthy of Your heavenly calling. Amen.