Mark 7:3
For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders
Most of us have traditions of some sort. We have Christmas and Thanksgiving traditions in our families, maybe family reunions as traditional gatherings, and rituals within these gatherings. We also have traditions in our worship. Issues with traditions arise when we forget the meaning of why we do what we do especially in matters of faith and worship. The traditions take on less meaning because we forget what the reason was for in the first place. For example, blessing yourself with water as you walk in the church…do you really know the depth and meaning behind that, or is it just a tradition or ritual with no meaning. There's nothing really wrong with tradition as long as we remember what it is for and the meaning behind it. In Mark's gospel this weekend, we find the Pharisees and scribes gathered around Jesus observing what he and his followers were doing. They noticed that some were eating with unclean hands and not going through the prescribed purification of cups, kettles, and jugs. In the eyes of the officials, this was a sin. The Pharisees were quick to pounce and denounce those who were being critical. Jesus doesn't tell his followers to wash up…instead, he tells the scribes and all around that "nothing enters one from the outside will defile, but things that come out from within are what defile." In other words, the human heart and soul can be dirtier and more harmful than what is on someone's hands. What would Jesus say about the world we live in today? Social media has become a land of vitriol and ill-will. Personal attacks and lack of respect are everywhere. Too much of this can lead us down a sinful road. Pray today for the courage to take the high road. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in all of your actions and words. When you attend church this weekend, carefully consider what these rituals and traditions mean. The catholic faith has many traditions including baptism and the Eucharist. These traditions have been passed down for 2000 years. Don't take them for granted; be part of our tradition.
