Monday; April 21
On this date in 1993, there were a lot of well-meaning people sitting around, scratching their heads and wondering what went wrong. Following a nearly two-month standoff, on April 19, agents from the federal government raided the Branch Davidians just outside of Waco, Texas. Before the literal smoke cleared about eighty people were dead. Since that tragic day there has been a lot of finger pointing as to who was responsible for what, but as I look back on events like this one thing stands out – the influence religion can have on people. The vast overwhelming influence of religion produces goodness and morality, but given the right circumstances it can ignite passions that can create heartache. Throughout history there have been stories of people who have used religion as a way to rally people. Again, there are times that these leaders have brought about significant positive change; however, there are other times when it has ignited tragedy.
As I reflected on the anniversary of this infamous event, I was drawn to how the New Testament writer, James, defined religion, “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” (James 1:27). When godly religion is applied appropriately, it can produce good, but when it is used as a tool of manipulation it can create heartache. Our modern society is no different. Through the years there have been a lot of people who have used religion to prove their point or promote their way. Yet, at the end of the day, unless the goal of religion is to promote godliness we must be wary of it.
The purpose for this article isn’t to call out certain religions, rather it is remind us to use caution in who and where we follow. Lets’ be careful to approach religion with a sense of sincerity and in a way that praises God.
Think About It!