After reading this text, I think the bottom line for being a Christian, the ultimate expression of a God-centered life is being other-centered.  Even "religion" as opposed to "Christianity" (not that they should be separate) is defined by God as being other-centered.

Religion that God accepts as pure and faultless is, according to James 1:27: 
1.    looking after orphans. 
2.    taking care of widows. 
3.    not letting yourself get polluted by the world.  

Even if your situation does not include widows or orphans, it almost certainly includes someone who is in need. Every human being has something within them that needs some caring for. 

Maybe the reason many people today are leaving organized religion, while still claiming the spirit of Christianity, could be that "religion" has focused too much on itself rather than the calling of God to be "other-centered." We have forgotten about those who might need our help, even within our own group. 

We have to remember that:
1.    it's not about me—it's about others. 
2.    strengthening from within a body of believers should serve only one purpose: to equip me to go out and find others in need so I can serve them. A church is not a fortress; it's a gathering place from which to go out to the world. 
3.    we need help staying focused on spiritual priorities, and our fellowship with "religion" can do just that. When we come and meet with others in God's house, we are reconnected with the antithesis of the world.  

I need to focus on the Savior, and I need an opportunity to reprioritize what is most important in my life. This is best done in an environment that is all about Him, so that I can be equipped to go out and serve. That's what going to church should accomplish.

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. "God is Faithful" is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.