Spiritual PathwaysSample

Ritual & Creation

This week, we are looking at many different ways in which men can find communion with God. We always want to clearly declare that Jesus is the only path to the Father (John 14:4-6), but we also acknowledge that He has made us all uniquely and that different men can feel close to God in different ways.

One way to draw close to God is through the “Ritual” or “Sacramental” pathway (Matthew 28:19). As the name suggests, these are men who feel closest to God through religious ceremonies.

Many Protestant traditions only formally hold to two religious ceremonies: communion and baptism (there are exceptions to this). Still, beyond the official religious rituals, there are many other “rituals” that we engage in, such as devotionals, prayer, corporate worship, etc. Men on this pathway hold a high view of such ceremonies, connecting with God through the regular routine of these actions, feeling a deep sense of reverence and communion with God as they do.

Throughout Church history, a reverential view of communion and baptism has permeated traditions and time, providing a profound meeting place with God. The Old Testament also highly values religious rituals as important to approaching God in worship.

The final pathway we will examine is the “Creation” or “Naturalist” pathway (Romans 1:20). Men who are wired this way feel close to God when they are experiencing His Creation.

Men who draw close to God in this way are filled with wonder when they see the sky, the flowers, the mountains, the beach, the ocean, etc. All of it points them to God and fills them with worship for the Creator who made them. These men tend to get antsy in cold weather because they need to be outdoors again, finding closeness to God and refreshing in their soul as they behold His glory through what He has made, how He has designed the world, and how He upholds it.

The Psalmist echoes these ideas, glorifying God through the Creation and letting his soul rejoice as he does so (Psalm 19:1-6).

If either of these options resonates with you, then be encouraged to unapologetically find time to connect with God in these spaces. It will be good for your soul and your walk with Him that you do!

Prayer: Father, thank You for the ceremonies You have given us to help us connect with You, and thank You for the Creation that points us to Your glory with awe and wonder. Use these things to draw me to You. Amen.

Reflection: Take some communion elements (bread and juice) and celebrate Communion today. Also, make sure to spend some time outdoors, allowing the Creation to point you to the Creator.