Perhaps the biggest problem concerning religion in today’s society is that it’s been regulated to a simple set of beliefs—creeds, theology, and dogma—which are often very abstract.
This, in turn, has allowed people to create litmus tests around what people think about a particular topic or religious idea.
So, it’s no surprise that we’ve become more tribal and isolated from one another.
We’re more divided than ever.
But, The Presentation of Christ into the Temple shows us that religion can’t be reduced to a simple set of beliefs.
Scripture: Luke 2:22-40 (click here to read)
Bottom Line: Our dedication to God sets the pattern for our lives.
Discussion Questions
- What you hear the word ‘religion,’ what definitions come to mind? What negative images come to mind? What positive images come to mind?
- The Bible, rather than stressing complex ideas about theology, stresses the idea of ‘trust’ in God, which means works of obedience to God and the love of others. How does this set a pattern to live by? If religion was understood as ‘trust’ rather than ‘belief’ how do you think people would see church differently?
- Being dedicated do God—either through ‘churching’ or baptism—requires trust. How can you live your life worthy of one who has been dedicated to God? What do you need to change? What are you doing well and need to support?
Moving Forward
Being dedicated to God—as Jesus is in today’s feast and as we are through ‘churching’ and baptism—shows us that religion isn’t about mental knowledge.
Instead, it’s about entering God’s household for our transfiguration.
As a member of God’s household, we hear his voice calling out to us, encouraging us to live a life worthy of our dedication.
As a child, Jesus heard God’s call and spent time in the Temple during Passover (Lk. 2:41-52).
In the Old Testament, Samuel heard God’s call and responded by saying, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening,” and then taking God’s message to Eli the High Priest (I Sam. 3).
So, religion can’t be limited to creeds, theology, and dogma.
Instead, it’s about living our lives so that all can see that we’ve been dedicated to God.
How will you go about that this week?
Changing Your Mind
“And there was Anna … And for eighty-four years had been a widow: who did not leave the Temple, serving night and day with fasts and supplications.” (Luke 2:36, 37)