Other superstitions and traditions here have to do with birth and death. It's considered very bad luck here to hold a birthday party for someone before his or her birthday, because it might cause that person bad luck before the birthday actually arrives. You also can't hold a baby shower before the baby is born, nor can you visit the family of a new baby until 40 days after the birth. Yup, that's bad luck too.
Ruth said it's very hard to convince members of their church that God is bigger than these traditions, which seem quite obviously based on trying to control the uncontrollable in life. Last Sunday, Mark actually preached a bit on this, albeit gently, talking about some of the superstitions and then pointing to scriptures where Jesus tells us "Do not be afraid" (Luke 12:32) and "I am the good shepherd" (John 10). Mark's church is very young. Maybe the next generation will put their trust in the Lord, rather than in superstitions. But it will take a lot of change.
Can you imagine this, being so ruled by tradition (or superstition) that you cannot even process your deepest grief with the help of your church and community? Having to dwell in your misery, for years perhaps, and never taste all the beauty and joy life still has for the living? I felt so very sad for that family, and resentful of the cultural mores that bind them. I know it's important to respect everyone's right to his or her cultural practices. But I can't help wishing for this community that hope will conquer fear and life will conquer death. I believe that's the life God wants for us here and now, even when hardships strike.
This is the scripture I've been memorizing and meditating on during our time in Albania, trying to let it stick to all the corners of my mind that otherwise tend to spin around like my own evil-eye talisman of worry and dispair: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hears and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Colossians 4:4)
2 comments:
Thanks for the entry Esther. It is very interesting. A part of my family is very superstitious. I remember being reprimanded for attending my uncle's funeral when I was pregnant. I often ponder how and why some of these superstitions were born.
Great verses to meditate on... we all need that reminder to rejoice in the Lord and be anxious for nothing... sounds like you're doing just that! hugs!
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