Religion has the potential to inspire goodness, but it can also be misused for self-justification. The prophets reminded Israel to stay true to justice, integrity, and the heart of the covenant. Their message is just as relevant today. Faith should never be a tool for control or exclusion—it should call us to love, truth, and compassion. For the untransformed self, religion is the most dangerous temptation of all. That is why prophetic voices are so important. Though often resisted in their time, they spoke with courage, calling people back to what truly matters. We need those voices now more than ever—to challenge hypocrisy, reveal truth, and remind us that faith without justice is incomplete. When we listen, we grow.
May we remain vigilant,
knowing that for the untransformed self,
religion is the most dangerous temptation of all.
(inspired by Richard Rohr, The Tears of Things)