“Pre” #1: What does “Tradition” mean to me?

A precursor to hopefully the first of many…catching a moment in time to reflect on an important subject. So innocuous a word, Tradition. Who wouldn’t want or like tradition? On the surface it provides a certain amount of clarity and ease so as not to require “reinventing the wheel”? Tradition in context with religion is the dissemination of beliefs, practices and values from one time period to another. It can be oral teachings, ceremonies/rituals, scriptures and all handed down from another era. It provides a sense of history, values and practices. These are meant to bolster individual participation with larger groups, family structures and community/society. It reinforces identity in both a religious sense and continuity. The opposite of this is constant change, sometimes havoc with no full meaning or true purpose. Change for the sake of change is gives one the sense of a shaky foundation. It can create chaos and conjures up misunderstanding, suspicion and ill-will against your neighbor. This is not being holy, and not what Jesus wanted. Belief in Jesus Christ provides a sure foundation in love of God and thy neighbor.