What does it mean to be in relationship?

How do we understand the nature of our relationships: with God, with ourself, and with another (or an other)?

We are relational beings. Some can and will say that we cannot exist without others, in support or in companionship. But what does it mean to be in relationship? How are our relationships defined and shaped?

It is simpler (and I believe that is a relative term here) to be in relationship with God. Simple in so far as we can only understand God as a relationship. We cannot imagine God and humans in any other form except in relationship. But how much of that relationship is us and how much of that relationship is God? One could rightly say that the relationship is governed by God and God's providential actions to and for us. But what about us? Where is our free will included in the "equation?"

As I progress in my call to ordination I am troubled by a couple questions:
1. How do I live my relationship with God in and through my relationship with God's people? How are these relationships tempered by the presence or influence of the church (or other Christians)? Is my relationship different when I am in relationship with others in or at Church, in worship? Is my relationship different when I meet the other (Christian or otherwise) outside the confines of the Church?
2. How does my relationship with God impact my worship, both as a participant and a leader? How much do I have to do with the liturgy (the order and practice of worship)?

We (hopefully we all do) often struggle with the nature of our relationship with God and how that relationship shows in our relationships with others. Our nature is the single thing that we can bring to any relationship - but living into and with our nature is a difficult thing for me (and maybe many others).

Grace and peace to you all during this Easter Season!