Popular superstition dies hard, even just in humor. The old idea that Friday the 13th is supposed to be a day of misfortune underlies some of our other old superstitions as well. Possibly originating in Norse mythology with a few touches out of early Christian thinking, the connection with Friday didn’t seem to occur before the 19th century.
As persons living in the 21st century, we are supposed to unload old folk superstitions, but popular culture reinforces such ideas as well as other kinds of strange beliefs. We really don’t know the origin of many ideas in our assumptive world but still hold onto them, even when the evidence points otherwise.
Examining our old beliefs and superstitions, for lack of a better word, should be part of our journey through life. This examination should include our old prejudices as well, many of which are hidden deep within us. Moving beyond our old ideas into a new world is difficult, to be sure, but necessary to be truly human.
Prayer for the Day
You created us all as your children, O God,
Giving us eyes to see and ears to hear, but we are blind and deaf;
Your Spirit calls us from our history in our time,
But we struggle to find your truth to guide us in our daily decisions.
Move us from our failure of ourselves and of you,
So we are able to speak your truth to the world around us.
In the name of him who came to open our hearts to your truth,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Fear is the main source of superstition, and one of the main sources of cruelty. To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom.
- Bertrand Russell, British philosopher, from Unpopular Essays (1872-1970)
You may substitute knowledge for superstition without satisfying the needs that drive people into superstition's arms.
- Susan Neiman, American writer, from Moral Clarity: A Guide for Grown-up Idealists
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change,
Though the mountains shake I the heart of the sea;
Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with tumult.
Psalm 46: 1-3