Thanksgiving Traditions

Most of the leaves have fallen - it can mean only one thing - it's almost time for Thanksgiving and quickly following is Christmas. The holidays usher in a long list of traditions that we will participate in - from turkey and pumpkin pie on the Thanksgiving table to decking the halls with Christmas decorations while listening to my old Amy Grant tape (yes, that's not a misprint - I did say tape!) As far back as I can remember my family listened to this record while we decorated our tree - and now my children do the same!

The word "tradition" is not found in the Old Testament but God does give instructions for remembering works that God has done through practices that are traditions. Exodus 12:42 is speaking about the Passover and says "Because the Lord kept vigil that night to bring them out of Egypt, on this night all the Israelites are to keep vigil to honor the Lord for the generations to come."

Here's how we are to practice traditions:

1. Use them to remember what the Lord has done for us - "Because the Lord kept vigil".

2. As the passage says, use them "to honor the Lord".

3. Teach them to your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren so they too will honor the Lord - "for the generations to come".

Noel Piper says "A tradition is a planned habit with significance."

My Thanksgiving traditions are like most - eat some turkey, spend time with the family, avoid shopping plazas and watch some football. But I'd like to start a spiritual tradition. Does anyone have a spiritual tradition that they could share with me (and others)! I'd love to hear what your families do - and maybe my family can adopt your tradition too!

Walk with the King!

Courtney

http://www.womenlivingwell.org/