Tradition?

As I was researching a tradition quote for yesterday I was reminded that tradition has a pretty bad reputation. Tradition can be a joy from our past that can help guide us as we move forward, or it can be an anchor from our past that keeps us from ever moving forward. As the old church joke goes, "We've never done it that way before." That can be an inquisitive pause or a cease and desist order.

Unfortunately a church or Christians can be some of the worst. I'm sure we all know someone who serves out of tradition or worships out of tradition but is spiritually drier than a desert wind. We do it because we've always done it and that's how we do it. We stagnate at our spiritual highpoint and prefer that we never leave that place. Keep the songs the same, keep ministry the same, let's leave things the way they are right at that time.

So with that in mind, I hope our traditions are traditions that allow us to move forward yet reminiscent of where God has brought us. Hopefully the Mills Christmas traditions won't be an anchor to my kids, but a reminder of the joys of family and the hope of Immanuel, God with us.

Christmas Tradition of the Day: When we bring our tree into the house to set it up, Russ Taff's CD, "A Christmas Song" is always playing in the background. This is my favorite Christmas album of them all. It has sort of a smooth jazzy feel to it. Mellow with a nice bass. Check out a sampler at CBD.

Be Refreshed!

Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:17 Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own.

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 17:1-4 1 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. 4 Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah."

Quote of the Day: "Tradition is a guide and not a jailer." William Somerset Maugham