Freedom of Religion

So the Bill of Rights says I have the right to exercise my religion as I see fit.  Let's define "exercise."

• bodily or mental exertion
• something done as for practice or training
• putting into action, use, operation, or effect

So, what activities exercise my religion?  Oh, going to church for sure, studying the Bible, prayer...but is there anything more obscure - something harder on which to put ones finger?  Hmm...

• Does spending time pondering my cross collection exercise my religion?
• Does tending to the possessions God has provided for my benefit exercise my religion?
• Does saying "no" to that one more thing so that I have a moment to deal with the struggles He allows for my education and growth exercise my religion?

No.  And the list may go on, but they are still an exercise - an exercise of my faith - not my religion.  Religion is the denomination of which you are a member - Lutheran, Catholic, Methodist, Non-denom even.  Faith is the basic truth you believe to your core.  People confuse these far too often and that bothers me.  I am a Christian before I am a Lutheran.  You "should" do this or that doesn't work for me.  I've been at this whole "relationship with God" thing my whole life.  I think I have it pretty well figured out and there is no one who can tell me otherwise.

Rant completed.