The word "ritual" often carries an aura of mysticism, conjuring up a negative vibe. But a ritual can be simply defined as an action repeatedly done in the same way. A ritual needn't require hocus-pocus or incantations, but can simply be a regular pattern or routine of doing something, often for the purpose of creating a memory pathway or helping to cement something in our hearts and minds.

For example, I have a particular routine that I follow when I go to the coffee shop. I order my favorite cardamom latte and then pick up the filled-to-the-brim mug at the service counter. I then carefully carry my beverage to the condiments bar where I sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top, enhancing the swirl of coffee art on top. The cinnamon adds little flavour or substance to the drink, and the barista could easily sprinkle it on for me, but I like the little ritual of doing it myself. It's simply a small act of completion, bringing a sense of satisfaction and well-being.

I follow other regular routines in my daily life that also contribute to a sense of order. I routinely make my bed every morning, even when no one but me will see it. I go to our dining room at 5:00 p.m. if I want to eat dinner. I regularly pay my bills and put gas in my car. Ritual or routine, systematic patterns in life are essential.

In Bible times, the Jews had many, many, many rituals that they were required to perform daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly. There were seemingly endless rules for offering sacrifices and observing the Sabbath. Daily life entailed regular attention to fulfilling the law. These God-given commands weren't intended to place an impossible burden on the people but were meant to be a daily reminder of God's place in their lives.

Many of our churches today observe ordered traditions. For example, the sacraments of baptism and communion — rituals which serve as reminders of our daily life with God — are regularly celebrated as sacred remembrances.

1 Corinthians 11:26 – For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup you are retelling the message of the Lord's death, that he has died for you. Do this until he comes again. (TLB)

Thus, even though we are no longer bound by the old Law, we observe patterns and traditions that help us to remember who we are as the people of God. It is important, however, that we disentangle sheer repetitive actions from the meanings that they are intended to point us toward. With frequent repetition, even deeply meaningful symbolic actions can become trite and stale.

Let us look at some of our repeated church practices and traditions with fresh eyes and receptive hearts. May they serve as true reminders, not as meaningless, rote actions.

Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, as we maintain a regular discipline of meaningful traditions and practices in our lives as Christians, may we seek to exercise them in a fresh and vibrant way, avoiding dull monotony. Amen.