Becoming or Belonging (Or Both)?

In response to a question about one's religion, most people will answer "I am a Christian," or "I am a Muslim." The label refers to a community that one belongs to.  But perhaps religion is more about becoming than belonging?

Those who belong join a team and stick to that team usually for the rest of their lives.  Those who become, on the other hand, practice their faith's instructions on how to live and be a member of their community.  For example, animist traditions require that one participate in rituals almost on a daily basis, making one part of a community of people each of whom has a role to play.  Applying this idea to more modern religions, one becomes a Christian by feeding the poor, attending church worship services regularly, reading The Holy Bible, and praying to God, Jesus, angels, and/or the Holy Spirit.  Similar steps may be necessary to become a member of other religions as well.  "Becoming" suggests that these steps be carried out continually; just doing them once might not be enough.  Those who become a member of their religion may have more in common with other "becomers" from other faiths than those who merely belong to one denomination.

What about those who just belong to their religion and who take no steps to "becoming" or who go only part of the way?  By one theory, failure to meet the expectations to become a member of a religious community is an opportunity lost and not cause for punishment or exclusion.  There is room in the universe for those who just belong and those who have become a devout practitioner of their faith.

What do you think?  Send your theory to scott@theorism.org.