To Heal the World

To Heal the World

Ronald A. Rasband

Takeaways:

Religious freedom is under attack. “Religious freedom allows each of us to decide for ourselves what we believe, how we live and act according to our faith, and what God expects of us.” It is “inclusive, liberating, and respectful.”

Societies and individuals benefit from religious freedom in four ways:

1) Religious freedom places God at the center of our lives.

2) “Religious freedom fosters expressions of belief, hope, and peace.”

3) “Religion inspires people to help others.” “No question, people of faith, working together, can make significant interventions. At the same time, one-on-one service is often unheralded but quietly changes lives.”

4) “Freedom of religion acts as a unifying and rallying force for shaping values and morality.” During Jesus’ ministry, many people refused to hear him because the concepts he preached were too difficult. But “[i]f religion is not there to help with shaping character and mediating hard times, who will be?”

Challenges:

“I invite you to champion the cause of religious freedom. It is an expression of the God-given principle of agency.”

Questions to Ponder:

Ponder the positive impact that religious freedom has on a society. How have you seen religion positively impact your home and family?

How can you champion the cause of religious freedom in your circles? 

Further Study: