Bear with me.  It’s not just one individual family member, but the collective family group through three generations. 

And I know it’s not the Christmas season, but this prompt reminds me of some of the special family traditions that I’ve experienced. 

Tradition is defined as a belief, practice, or custom passed down from generation to generation, often within a particular culture or society. It also refers to long-established practices or sets of beliefs followed by a group.

For many, family traditions are an integral part of the Christmas holidays. Growing up, my family had our own cherished traditions that made the season special.

We always attended the Christmas Eve service, enjoyed a chili supper, exchanged gifts, and later, when the grandkids came along, we added a birthday cake for Jesus.

While we have carried on some of these traditions, life changes, and so do traditions. While they are meaningful, they don’t last forever. New traditions may take their place, but ultimately, Christmas isn’t about the traditions.

Christmas is about the gift of Jesus. If our traditions overshadow that truth, we risk focusing on the wrong thing.

Every tradition, every shared moment with family and friends, exists because of Jesus. It has taken me over 60 years to fully grasp this perspective, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Grateful for Jesus. Grateful for my family. Grateful for the moments made special because of Him. He has always been, and always will be, at the center of it all.