In Defense of Tradition

 

In Defense of Tradition

Can you imagine the Queens Guard Band marching to Buckingham palace playing a Tommy Dorsey swing arrangement in place of the traditional British March? I would imagine the ‘Brits’ would go ballistic, if not the Queen herself! But why would this elicit such a negative reaction?

Tradition, of course!

I have stood at Buckingham Palace and watched the Guards, from a distance, march down the Mall toward the Palace grounds. Given my British heritage, I found this to be a real thrill, even a 'heart pounding' experience. It was wonderful! It was ‘tradition’ on display in its finest form.

However, in this modern day and age, I think tradition is getting a bad rap! Those who find tradition meaningful are often criticized, if not ostracized, by friend and foe alike.  Get 'with it' they are told and leave such nonsense behind! Many think we should toss tradition aside in favor of more contemporary ways of doing things.

 Tradition has become an issue in the Christian Church also, especially as it regards music and the modern forms it has taken in the worship setting.

First, let me say, I believe everyone should worship in an atmosphere they are comfortable with and if that means the more modern offerings, then I say wonderful! However, be careful not to hold the 'traditionalist' in contempt. If traditional music is meaningful to some (I believe many), then let's encourage its use wherever it is appropriate.

Being comfortable in the worship setting is a prerequisite for true worship. I believe that is why many churches are offering two services on Sunday morning, one contemporary and one traditional. Of course, to do this you must have a sufficiently large attendance if you are going to separate the services.

 There is another point that might be made. Rick Warren once wrote, "Show me a radio station with a mixed format and I will show you a radio station bound to fail" (Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Church). His point being that people will listen to one genre' at a time and if you mix them on the same station they will tune out! Traditional and contemporary music in the same service may work for some, but not all.

 I seek out traditional music because it stirs my soul and brings me closer to God.  It enables me to worship as I should. I don't like being criticized for it.

I also like other worship traditions like the use of the choir, vocal and instrumental soloists and so much more.

For those who are seeking more contemporary music... more power to you, if that helps you get closer to God! As for me, I seek the traditional. I enjoy music that makes me 'feel good' and I don't apologize for it! I look to be moved by the Spirit as I sing the traditional hymns.... that is what is meaningful to me.

I doubt we will be listening to the Queens Bands playing swing style (on the march) anytime soon. They, no doubt, will continue to use the traditional British marches. Good for them! I applaud them for it!