Family Traditions: An Opportunity To Not Be Missed


I love Christmas movies. Well not the cheesy Hallmark channel ones, but ones that quickly become a part of your Christmas traditions.

If you're a Christmas movie fan you'll identify these rather easily:
  1. Scott Calvin putting on the suit.
  2. Clarence getting his wings.
  3. Fred coming through as the best big brother ever.
  4. Buddy dancing in the mailroom.
  5. Kevin asking if the toothbrush is approved by the American Dental Association.
When my son's were growing up I was busy most evenings of the week. This meant having to purposeful target family times where we could be together uninterrupted. This time of year this often included brownies in the oven or popcorn popping, a board game, and a fun Christmas movie. To this day they recall those evenings as favorites from their youth.

Establishing traditions to make memories with your children is of great importance. Having times your children look forward to creates the opportunity to not simply have fun (although that's extremely important). You also create a setting where truth can often be taught in subtle ways as issues arise in what your viewing, or in the conversations that take place.

Regarding the handing down of our faith, Moses taught the Hebrew people;
"You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up." Deuteronomy 11:19

The things of God weren't delegated to Sunday School teachers and children's church settings. They would be taught when you sit in your house. When you went for a walk. Both at night, and in the morning. You may have to create those moments with your children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. But Moses lets us know they won't be hard to create. You'll work them into the routine of life. This season gives you the opportunity to creatively work them in.

Following the Son,

James A Williams 

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