For which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold?” (Matthew 23:17 NKJV)
Some years back I was watching a cheesy vampire movie. The vampire was attacking one of the main characters as they lifted up a cross to protect themselves. He grabbed it, saying, “It only works if you actually believe in it”. Hmmm, a spiritual lesson…
Jesus was driving the same point home to the misguided religious crowd of His day. A church is just a building, a cross is an emblem, and communion is just a function if there is no belief, conviction, or relationship. Religious things and service must have the backing of the Holy Spirit to be of any value, which only comes because of a genuine daily relationship with God.
A lack of belief caused some poor soul to be a vampire snack. For us in reality, it will lead to someplace much worse! You were created to know God intimately and make Him known to those looking for life! Enjoy a spiritual week of true relationship! You are loved!