Family memories and traditions - 14^th January 2009

Some years ago, we did the Family Time course with a group of friends from church. It was a great course, highly recommended for anybody with children of any age.  My favourite part of the course was discussing our specific family traditions, the things that we do year after year as wonderful habits that build lovely memories.  Candle Time in Advent with the same book of stories; a meal out after every child’s parents evening or report to celebrate their success and hard work.  A certain list that is written in each child’s birthday card; Children jumping in the swimming pool in their clothes as soon as we get to a holiday villa!  Reindeer dust and a carrot on Christmas Eve.  Why not ask your children what your family traditions are, or start building some this year as you build great memories.

Traditions are wonderfully nostalgic.  They help us to remember where we have come from.  In fact, God himself commanded his people to set dates for certain feasts and to keep these annual traditions – religiously!  We establish rituals for certain holidays, especially Christmas, and if these do not happen exactly as we always do it then it just doesn’t feel right.  We remember birthdays not just because the High Street is full of card shops, or because we get e-mail reminders, but because we know they matter.  The best place for traditions to hold their power is in our homes.

You may have a tradition that goes back to the days of your grandparents, or even earlier.  Before you next observe one of your traditions, stop and tell your children exactly why you do that – what it means to your family.  Even if it’s just done for fun, tell your kids that’s why – because you love them and you want them to remember the sillyness of family life too.

Traditions are empty if no one remembers the meaning behind them.  God commanded those feasts, and communion, so that his people would remember what he did for them.  And it’s your job to pass those stories on too.

Gracious Father, thank you for displaying the mighty works of your hands in the lives of our forefathers. Never let me forget. Help me remember and explain your traditions and our own with my family. AMEN.