The Religious Wall We Construct: A Reflection on Connectivity and Faith

Bridging Divides in Our Spiritual Journey

In the tapestry of life, there's a peculiar habit that many of us, especially those walking a path of faith, tend to develop. It's the construction of a wall, one that not only stands tall but also serves to divide. Imagine, if you will, a scenario where on one side of this formidable barrier, you find yourself standing shoulder to shoulder with the Divine, casting shadows alongside figures of spiritual significance. On the opposite side, there lies everyone else - those journeying through life with us, yet inexplicably segregated by our own doing.

Consider the family dynamic: it's akin to placing yourself and your mother in an exclusive enclave while leaving your father on the outskirts. This analogy extends beyond the confines of our homes to encompass the broader spectrum of our lives. The Almighty, in His infinite wisdom, blessed us with a medley of relationships – family, mentors, spiritual leaders, and the broader community. These connections are not arbitrary; they are divinely ordained.

It's paramount to acknowledge that the Lord’s methods of communication are vast and varied. He might not always reach out to us directly. Instead, He could whisper through Scripture, inspire through literature, enlighten through art, comfort through companionship, or uplift through melodies. The vehicles of His messages are as diverse as creation itself.

Yet, what transpires when we elect to shutter ourselves from the world? When we opt for isolation, insisting on a direct line to divinity that excludes all external influences, we inadvertently place God within a "Personal Box." This box is not a treasure chest of divine wisdom; rather, it's a confinement, a limitation of the Infinite by our finite understanding. It echoes the folly of a child who believes the universe revolves solely around their desires.

This brings us to a pivotal question: What is discernment, truly? Is it the capacity to judge well, or is it, perhaps, the ability to recognize the multitude of ways through which God communicates His will and wisdom? When we dismiss the potential messengers among us, be they seasoned believers or novices in faith, we risk overlooking the very essence of God’s work in our lives. The rejection of these vessels of divine truth might stem not from spiritual insight but from personal bias, pride, or fear.

Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it."

This scripture challenges us to dismantle the barriers we've erected, not only between ourselves and others but also between us and the manifold ways God chooses to speak to us.

In this reflection, it becomes evident that faith is not a solitary journey nor a monologue. It's a rich, interconnected dialogue filled with a chorus of voices, each bearing the potential to convey divine wisdom. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us strive to lower the walls we've built, not only to enrich our spiritual journey but to embrace the fullness of the community and the myriad ways God speaks into our lives.

Just something to ponder on your journey.

Here To Serve…

Matthew Adams

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