Are we following any traditions? Are there good and bad traditions in our culture or society? If so, what are the traditions you and I are still holding, and trying to pass on to the next generation?
As per the Webster’s dictionary, the meaning of “tradition,” is transmittal of elements of a culture from generation to another, especially by oral communication. In other words, the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction.What are the good and bad traditions that were handed down from our ancestors? Or, can we differentiate these traditions? How do we know whether or not the traditions are acceptable?
I think both exceptional and awful traditions have been passed on to us from our ancestors; however, believers in Jesus Christ (“Christians”) no longer follow bad ones. For instance, worshiping the “Creator” rather than the creatures (Rom. 1:24-25 NKJV). This doesn’t mean that present generations are following the same traditions as our ancestors. In fact, in my own family, our relatives are still worshiping the creatures rather than the Creator. My heart breaks when I think about it. These people whose hearts are hardened and eyes blinded to know the truth need more outreach program. It is my prayer that one day they also will follow the traditions that we hold so far.
In the 21st century can we hold the traditions that were taught to us whether by word or epistle (2 Thess.2:15 NKJV)? I think today this is one of the great challenges that you and I are faced with in this postmodern world. However, it is our God-given responsibility and duty to hold firm the traditions that were passed on to us by our forefathers.
Had not the exceptional tradition passed on to us by Godly people, today we would be still worshiping the creatures rather than the “Creator.” In fact, unacceptable traditions are no more in our family. Therefore, we should be thankful to those great people who first provided the “Good News” to our forefathers, and let us try to pass on the good traditions that we cherish to the next generation. Please share your thoughts and comments. Appreciated!