"Christianity" is often referred to as a major world "Religion." But I have a hard time thinking of Christianity as a religion because of the toxic affect that religion can have on those who long to be religious. Religion requires people to practice rules and rituals that often move them further away from God rather than drawing them closer to God. Someone has said, "Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship." I agree with that statement, but it doesn't go far enough. I believe that Christianity needs to be a lifestyle; the "Lifestyle of those who follow Jesus." However, the Christian lifestyle needs several things to make it practical, functional, sustainable and enjoyable. First, we need to have the kind of relationship with Jesus that provides the spiritual firepower to move us beyond our own human weaknesses. Next, we need to be part of a community of others who are committed to following Jesus. We also need to live within the guidelines of the scriptures so we can be mentored in the ways of Jesus. And then we need to practice a lifestyle that is "about others" rather than "about ourselves." Finally, we need to make a daily commitment to prayerfully, faithfully, enthusiastically long for and live out the values of Jesus... No Matter What! -- Bob