By James Dobson
These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family.
Esther 9:28
In today’s hurry-up society, it’s easy for frantic husbands and wives, as well as their harried children, to feel isolated and lonely. They begin to feel more like a busy cluster of people simply living together in a house than a living, breathing family with a linked character and heritage.
One way to avoid this disconnection is to establish traditions that encourage closeness and fellowship. For instance, for many years the Dobson family has enjoyed several traditions during the holidays that center around food. Each year during Thanksgiving and Christmas, the women prepare marvelous turkey dinners with all the trimmings. Another favorite at these times is a fruit dish called ambrosia, containing sectioned oranges and grapes. The family peels the grapes the night before the big day. We look forward to these gatherings not just for the food, but for the laughter and warm family interaction that occurs when we come together.
Even more beneficial are traditions that reinforce God’s love for His children, such as attending church as a family, reading Scripture together, and singing songs of praise. They bring a sense of identity and belonging to marriages and families, providing a wonderful reminder that we are all brothers and sisters in the family of God.
Before you say good night…
What were your favorite family traditions as a child?
What new traditions could you implement to benefit your family?
Dear God, we praise You as the refuge and strength of our marriage and family. May the traditions that we establish bring glory and honor to Your name even as they bring each of us closer together in love. Amen.
James Dobson is president of Focus on the Family. This article first appeared on his blog.
