We set great store by rituals, and they can be useful as reminders. The problems begin when the ritual itself becomes of prime importance. Another problem arises when we forget why it is that certain acts are performed and 'special' words said. Under these circumstances the ritual has, in fact, lost all meaning and indeed credibility. Probably the greatest challenge to Christianity is the presentation of a 'God' who is credible to this twenty-first century. This aspect of this meditation is far too great for this series. However what we can do is to be loyal to the 'God' we have. We, each one, can show this loyalty in the quality of our religious observance as it affects our daily living.
To love God with all our being and our neighbours as ourselves.

Whilst it is proper for worship
To be formal
Formality alone is not
Enough for God.
He looks deep into all our hearts
And seeks for Love.

Whilst it is right to sacrifice
Much for God
Sacrifice alone is not
Needed by God
God looks at our life's quality
And seeks for Love.

It is correct to offer our
Vows to the Lord
Vows of themselves have no meaning
Or truth for God
He looks deep into all our minds
And seeks for Love.

Faith is our cornerstone
On this alone we build
The faith we have from old
That was our forebears shield
By faith we live in faith we die
This is our hope of victory

This faith is through god's grace
From him alone it comes
It lifts our fallen race
Inspires our cheerful songs
By faith we live in faith we die
This is our hope of victory

By faith in Christ we live
The life near Heav'n on earth
This is the Spirit's gift
And shows our human worth
By faith we live in faith we die
This is our hope of victory

Faith in God the Father
Our faith in God the Son
Faith from God the Spirit
Eternal Three in One
By faith we live in faith we die
This is our hope of victory

Jesus calls us in the middle
Of our busy world and life
Jesus' challenge is to each one
Follow me and join the strife.

We, like them. The old apostles
Find him standing at our side
Calling us to make a diff'rence
To sin's ever surging tide

Jesus calls us by his Spirit
Use the gifts that are in you
Not alone will you be working
For the Spirit gives Her due

Well he knows our tribulations
He has shared our human lot
When our doubts and fears o'erwhelm us
Then he says "Forget me not"

Jesus calls us through his power
By his grace our lives to use
In the service of his kingdom
And to spread the Gospel news.

With apologies to Cecil Frances Alexander.