Fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you. (Deut. 6:2)
Expanded Passage: Deuteronomy 6:1-2
There are traditions including holiday meals, family game night, and summer vacations marked on our calendar. We participate in other activities that inadvertently become traditions. When my older siblings graduated from high school my parents gifted them with an onyx ring. However, as my graduation grew closer, I requested a typewriter instead. At that time I did not realize I was breaking a tradition. My parents, although the money was tight, purchased both for me.
My younger years are gone, and traditions have become more meaningful with age. Since my parents have passed, my siblings and I continue the tradition of enjoying some meals together. At these gatherings, the blessing for the food is sometimes sporadic due to everyone’s various arrival times. Recently our 10-year-old nephew got our attention with a question, “When can we hold hands, circle around the table, and say the grace like we used to?” Without realizing it, we had instilled in the younger generation our traditional way of giving thanks.
Moses knew his days were ending and he tried to grab the attention of Israel. He desired to keep God’s commandments, to fear him and to share this message with future generations. Now, my family not only keep the tradition of sharing meals together, but we have also designated 1:15 pm as the time to say the blessing around my parents’ table.
Consider the impact of your traditions, including those not yet recognized.
Denise Moore Greene was raised in The Wesleyan Church and resides in North Carolina. She enjoys time with her husband, children, and five grandchildren.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
