Tradition

Many of us are indoctrinated as children in theological and ethical beliefs.  My mother, grandmother, and great grandmother recited the Nicene Creed and lived lives based on the teachings of Jesus.  I am certain that Christianity could be traced back even further in my ancestry, perhaps even 1500 years to a time of Roman influence in Poland and Sweden. However, there was much argument among early Christians and Councils as to who Jesus was and what the church community should believe.  Therefore, I think it is necessary for every individual to compose a belief statement, rather than recite a creed that men in the 4th century believed. They summarized the popular political thoughts at the time.  They also make statements that are not part of Jesus teachings.  Jesus did not claim to be God, but he did say that we are all children of God.  Jesus was critical of those who were mired in exclusive religious traditions and daily practices, and yet we still insist on traditions in the name of piety. Jesus did not say he was without sin, and he did not say that we should worship his virgin mother. But we insist on those qualities to deify him.  He did not ask us to celebrate his birth, death, or resurrection. We inserted those dates to replace popular pagan celebrations.  Jesus did ask us continuously to do the will of the Father. So, after I review the words of Jesus written and told by men who followed the disciples and witnessed great things, I will try a feeble attempt at a personal perspective.  We know when a story is retold orally, it changes and is embellished or worded to fit the understanding and purpose of the teller. Matthew, Mark and Luke do not have the same conclusions as John.  Thomas is left out of the Bible as it focused on our "inner light".  Many other writings were ordered to be destroyed- some were recovered. What is most fascinating is that the history of a small oppressed nation, has become the Old Testament and basis for the world's largest religion. The Jewish people are a story of survival and strength.  Strength in spirit and community.  It is remarkable the one Jewish man was chosen as a Savior of our hearts and souls.  There are no flaws in his teachings.  There would be world peace if everyone followed Jesus teachings.  But, his teachings are still used to increase people's pocketbook and political power.  I believe that is opposing his purpose.  St. Francis of Assisi, Gandhi, Matin Luther King Jr., are among the few who tried to reestablish the ideals of Christ.  Their influence improved the lives of many who were oppressed, the same as Jesus did without political position. What would Jesus think about our conduct today?