Devotional 1-7-11

Marilyn Holleron wrote this devotional for the Christmas meeting of the Young at Heart at our church. The meeting was cancelled because of snow (I’m already tired of snow, and it’s the first week of January), so this is its premier…

Christmas is a time of traditions. Traditions make us who we are - they give us security, comfort, satisfaction, and they help children set the course for what is meaningful in life. Think of your traditions. Traditions don’t need to go on forever, but maybe for a season of your life. Going to the zoo each New Years Day was great when the children were young, but when they are older going to midnight mass may appeal. A group of JM church friends spend several days together in the fall at a state park. Each morning the first thing we do after breakfast is to have a period of devotion where each one participates. A tradition for us here at the church each month with friends is our Young at Heart meeting. A tradition.

In our family when I suggested at the Thanksgiving table a few years ago that we each tell for what we are thankful, there was some groaning and rolling of the eyes, but the next year it was obvious that attention had been given to this thought. It continues (a tradition) to be an important part of our holiday meal. Our family has learned to express what we are feeling, and to express our beliefs. Is this what Jesus ask of us? The tradition of singing the Johnny Appleseed song as our grace before meals has gone on for years. Girlfriends, and significant others were alerted ahead of time that this is something we always do, in a circle and holding hands. Tradition.

Many of you have heard about our 20 something year custom of making gingerbread houses together. I can’t adequately describe the bonding of family that has been the result of this tradition.

It is important to let some things go, but if it is meaningful, you will know that also.

Frederick Buechner say in his book “Telling the Truth” –“You can kiss your family and friends goodbye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”

Traditions--- there is significance in everything we do in life. God has given us each a foundation and then all that we do and think is a part of what makes us who we are today and what we continue to become.

A wise man once said, “Life is granted to no one on a permanent basis. It is a privilege, and we must use it wisely. It is up to each of us to make of it what we can.”

Prayer: Thank you for the traditions of our life. Thank you for the guidance you give us, that we may better serve you and do your will while we are here on earth. Thank you for your son that you have given, that we better understand how you would have us to live. Continue to guide us in all that we do. In your son’s name we pray. Amen

Marilyn Holleron