Are we even close?

We are asked to do the will of the Father.  It is plain but not simple.  In the history of religions that over a billion people follow, we are asked to worship and sacrifice.  Many cultures have built monuments to their gods, and follow strict routines without question.  This makes life a little easier, but it is not always logical or truly an act of love and reverence.  

The Christian Church has been a refuge for many, an excuse for several, and a source of conflict for all of us.  We can't seem to get it right.  Should our beliefs and practices change because people evolve?  Jesus tried to set things straight with church leaders, scholars, merchants and townspeople. Love and forgive everyone.  Helping one another is more important than judging and excluding those who don't fit the mold. But we still are more caught up in the rituals than we are in the service to others.  Are church leaders supposed to climb a latter of success, and is that success based on their ability to influence people to give money and come to church? Is that success based on a clean reputation and following the ten commandments better than anyone else?  Can a sinner be a leader?  All rhetorical questions. Jesus tried to set us straight.  We made him a king even after his death, resurrection and ascension.  We are mired in celebrating holy days and sacraments that Jesus did not do himself or ask of us.  We remember him when we break bread and drink wine.  We remember him in baptism as we promise to follow the way of love.  We remember him when we pray and meditate.  We do not do the will of the father, and we are not even close to following the way. What should we do if we are truly wishing to be Christlike? Next blog.