Too often, we let rules get in the way of faithful living. I think this is because religion, at its worst, is wielded as a powerful tool to control people. And it is easier to control people than it is to love them. It is easy to hide behind rules and religion. It makes things nice and easy, and you know where you stand, and more importantly, you know where they stand.

I’m a firm believer that grace trumps theology. Grace is messy and unpredictable, scandalous even. While rules may seek to control people, grace seeks to love and accept people. Love is harder than enforcing rules. But love is the way that leads to true transformation.

MOVING FORWARD: What rules do you break in service to God and neighbor?