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The Double-Edged Sword of Traditions

Traditions are unique in religious life: they can either enrich or encumber our spiritual journey. This dual edge invites us to critically examine how we practice and perceive the traditions we keep. The line between meaningful and “just because we’ve always done it this way” can be thinner than the pages of an ancient manuscript. Are they bringing us closer to G_d, or have they become mere rituals?

How Traditions Can be Traps 

Traditions steeped in legalism risk becoming traps. When we lose sight of their deeper meaning, these practices become aimless journeys devoid of purpose. Jesus criticized this human tendency, saying to the Pharisees, “Why do you break the command of G_d on account of your tradition?” (Matthew 15:3). This admonishment reminds us that traditions should not overshadow the divine commands they are meant to uphold.

Christian family traditions are a cornerstone of our family's corporate life.

If we do not responsibly use them to inform us, then our customs become nothing more than a hindrance—locking away memories that no one wants to revisit again. We must remember that a tradition should never overtake its goal of informing. 

What Makes a Tradition A Tradition? 

A tradition is an established behavior custom that shares and reinforces our faith. Its rituals, practices, and other iconographic expressions always point to faith. The Apostle Paul pointed to this constructive use of tradition, instructing the Thessalonians to “stand fast and hold to the traditions that you were taught, either by word or by our letter” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). Such traditions are designed not to point to themselves but to the greater truths they represent.

Christian family traditions are a cornerstone of our family's corporate life.

The Cycle of Tradition

Traditions can evolve, sometimes drifting away from their original meanings. The history of the Israelites shows a cyclical forgetting and remembering of the reasons behind their rituals, prompting the prophet Hosea to declare, “For I delight in kindness and not sacrifice, the knowledge of G_d rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6). This cycle illustrates the need to continually reconnect our practices to their foundational spiritual purposes.

Traditions as Vehicles to Faith

It can be easy to feel trapped when comprehending the rationale behind certain traditions—like a hamster running on its wheel. Although we may be making progress, we need a reason behind these customs to guide us and avoid getting stuck in an endless cycle of creating new reasons to justify our traditions. This emphasizes how important the original sense and purpose of the tradition are. 

Christian family traditions are a cornerstone of our family's corporate life.

Traditions should be vehicles, carrying us toward deeper understanding and stronger faith. The Passover, for example, serves as a perennial reminder of G_d’s deliverance and mercy (Exodus 12). Each element of this feast points beyond itself to the story of liberation and G_d’s enduring faithfulness (Exodus 6:6-7).

Invoking Passion Through Traditions

Our engagement with tradition should provoke enthusiasm and passion for the divine. As the Psalmist writes, “For You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; a burnt offering does not please You. The sacrifices of G_d are a broken spirit; a broken heart that is contrite, O G_d, You will not despise” (Psalm 51:16-17). This scripture underscores that the attitude and heart with which we approach traditions are crucial.

But this perspective can quickly become tiresome and nauseating. When the vehicle becomes our sole focus, we overlook what captures us – the passion of it all! We must remember to provoke enthusiasm. If we do not, then our tradition becomes our obstacle. 

The Role of Traditions in a Living Faith

When used wisely, traditions can be powerful tools for bringing holiness into our lives and communities. They should be evaluated and adapted to ensure they remain vibrant and meaningful. Engaging the community in these practices helps sustain their relevance and spiritual significance.

Signposts Not Destinations

While traditions are valuable, it is vital to remember that they serve as signposts pointing us toward deeper spiritual truths rather than being destinations in themselves. This perspective prevents traditions from becoming mere rituals and helps maintain their significance as reminders of our foundational beliefs and values.

Renewing Our Traditions

To ensure that traditions remain relevant and meaningful, they may need to be adapted to the context of contemporary faith communities. Consider these actionable steps for renewing traditions:

  • Evaluate: Regularly assess the impact of your traditions. Do they still resonate with and engage your community? Are they inclusive and accessible to all members?
  • Educate: Provide teaching on the origins and meanings of traditions. Understanding the ‘why’ behind a practice can reinvigorate its significance and inspire greater participation.
  • Engage: Engage the community in the process of adaptation. Gathering input and involving members in decision-making can help ensure that changes are embraced and valued.

By revisiting and sometimes revising our traditions, we can keep them alive and meaningful, ensuring they continue to enrich our spiritual lives and strengthen our communities in relevant and profound ways.

Reasons to Keep Traditions

HOLIDAYS

MARKERS IN OUR LIFE

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Jesus helps me understand the world. I am Iz. My goal is to share my daily fight in the hopes of being an example. An example of what exactly? Of someone who is trying live victoriously in Jesus. I fail often. Just as often, the Holy Spirit provides comfort as Jesus advocates for me before God the Father’s throne. It is my constant reality. It is a liberating reality.

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