FORMED BY TRADITION

FORMED BY TRADITION

(Friday, November 8)

“And you became imitators (μιμηταὶ) of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit; so that you became an example (τύπον) to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything.” (1 Thess 1: 6-8)

That’s how the apostolic tradition has always been passed on; by people becoming “imitators” of the Apostles and (through the Apostles) of the Lord. And then these people, who had learned from the apostolic model or example (typos), themselves became the model, example or, one could say, “canon” of faith to others, as did the Thessalonians to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.

This transmitting and receiving of the image of Christ, known as Tradition, happens from generation to generation, both “in much affliction” and “with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit.” Thank You, Lord, for calling us all to this adventure of our cross-carrying journeys, as You continue to form us into models or examples of Your life and light, through both affliction and joy.