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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion March 10, 2007 Tradition |
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Frontline Devotion for Saturday, March 10, 2007 by Mary Jo Anderson
Make a list of the annual holidays you celebrate and for each write down a tradition or two that you associate with that day or season. What is the activity? Who else is involved? How much time do you devote to it? How did this tradition originate and by whom? Do you look forward to it? How does it make you feel? Does it connect you to your faith?
We live in an extremely diverse community and world. Each of us has our own rituals to which we have become accustomed over the years and we have learned that it is “politically correct” to be tolerant and respectful of what others do. Many traditions are handed down from generation to generation. Practical need may have launched the practice in the first place and nostalgia may fuel its continued existence. Many customs are religiously based. Rituals give meaning to our existence.
Rituals and traditions can also get in the way. “We’ve always done it like this” paves the way for familiarity, but obligation and expectation can make for a meaningless journey with resentment along the way. Relationships suffer, and the observation or celebration gets added to the list of dreaded duties. What was meant to connect has instead distracted and detached. No wonder, “I’ll be glad when it’s over,” is a common sentiment.
When was the last time you tried something new or traveled to a new destination? Remember the preparations you made? Did you talk with someone else to compare experiences, to gather advice? Did you weigh the pros and cons and consider how choices might impact those around you? Did you purchase new equipment or resources? Did you read a book or take a class? What was your motivation for seeking out a new experience? How important were the preparations to your end result? What memories and life lessons do you carry with you from that new experience?
Traditions and rituals are important and the comfort of “We’ve always done it like this” has its merits, but sometimes we need to examine why we do what we do. During this Lenten season, look closely at the preparations you personally make for Easter. Behave as if it were your first Easter approaching. Understand the reason for the season. Prepare passionately. Connect with your faith.
Dear God: If I am distracted, direct me. When obligation is all that moves me, open my heart to a new perspective and renewed passion. Let the Easter season speak to me in new ways. Amen
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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