During the year, many families faithfully observe traditions, which have evolved over time. They are attentive to these traditions and would be disappointed should they be discontinued. Some traditions have been newly initiated, while others were simply passed on and maintained. I’m certain many of you have such traditions. Family history helps younger family members identify with love ones from the past who diligently provided family leadership. Families rich in tradition have many memories to feast upon.
What a wonderful opportunity exists for current family leaders to place God at the forefront of all such traditions. They can weave in the Word of God into all gatherings, thus developing an appreciation of God among family and friends who otherwise would not know Him. This can be done by incorporating singing, praying and scripture reading.
Regarding faithfulness to God, the apostle Paul, in his second letter to the brethren at Thessalonica, penned, “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). Paul was informing these brethren of the necessity of standing fast to God’s Word. He emphasized the importance of holding to the truth, which they had learned from preaching, teaching, and inspired letters. As God’s people today, we must also recognize the necessity of standing and holding fast to the Word of God. Concerning a constancy of purpose of holding to His word, the Hebrew penman declared, “Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away” (Hebrews 2:1). Drifting away from the “things which we have heard” is initiated by forgetfulness. Forgetting to include God first in our lives and the lives of others promotes spiritual drifting, which puts distance between us and God.
Just as we pass on family traditions, we need to pass on the word of God to others. Paul penned the following to Timothy: “… be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:1-2). Paul, realizing his time on earth was drawing to a close, knew the necessity of imparting the gospel into the hands of faithful brethren.
Remembering traditions is beneficial in developing strong family ties, however, imparting the Word of God to our loved ones and friends is of far greater value than earthly remembrances.
Have you given consideration to the necessity of sharing of His Word with loved ones and friends? Why not put God at the center of your family activity planning?