Religion: Through The Ages

Alright, Rome, Greece, pre-Judaism faith from Norse mythology to Myan isolated beliefs in Central America, all had many numerous gods and tales of those gods to not only inspire, but give something to pray to. With temples to gods providing power to those who donated to that god, their system was one of, miracle or theft, but the theft had to be kept hidden in night so the gods took them, instead of a shaman or thief or whatever you wish to call it. The the myths of their heros gave power to people to know what to do in all situations. The power was controlled by the believer, as they recieved the inspiration. The gods called for heroics, and the people delivered. This changed in monotheism, in which god inspired good will to achieve for those who were powerful: whether it be the Crusaders or Muslim warriors, the power went from the people and the god, to the religious hierarchy in the middle. Now, the power of belief was wielded by a man, who controlled the belief of his flock. This is where we are today. Myths were the foundations of religious in the past, but today they are led by personal stories from the believers, or a book to which interpretation is left to man. Look who has the power. The power of faith is now told by enrollment to summer camps where the doctrine is studied, the donations to a 'charitable' organization on the day of worship in a building selected as being holy by, wait for it, the ones who own the building. Religious icons provided the proper place of prayer in old days, now they are in the hands of the organized religion, and held to secrecy unless a proper fee is made. A muslim will most likely not be given access to the Shroud of Tourin. Just saying. So, look to the modern religions and think about what the religion tells you in your heart, and what the people who claim to speak for god are telling you. Make up your own MIND. God in fact gave you one if you believe in him. So USE IT like he intended. Don't be a sheep. Be the shepherd of your life, and have no person tell you otherwise.