quotidian mysteries

To a lesser extent the former, but for the mostpart the latter. At least it should be. Often times we may get off track, but ultimately we will end up back where we need to be if we are truly seeking a closer relationship with Christ. (See Colossians 3:1-11) If not, that's completely up to us. Jesus did it all. He paid it all. There is nothing we can do to earn what He's done for us. We strive to become more like Christ (as we read He is in the bible) because we love Him, not because we have to, to somehow pay for the salvation we receive in Christ.

Talk is ultimately very cheap. It's our actions and reactions that show we've been with Jesus. Anyway, just my 2 cents. :-) James

James, I think this should be a both/and kind of answer.

The problem I'm having however, is that I perceive my church to be more of a belonging system than a transformational system; that is to say, my church is a social club of sorts.

I have grown increasingly uncomfortable with this. We are a predominantly white, upper class, spiritually fat congregation; and truth be told, we are more concerned with our own creature comforts than we are with loving God and/or neighbor.

Knowing this as I do, my heart breaks.

....and all I can do is wait for our Risen Lord to gather up the pieces and restore me to wholeness.