The Value of Traditions

In marriage, we bring together an eclectic collection of our traditions. Some of us have different cultures, backgrounds, and even regional areas that we must merge. Traditions help couples bring a piece of their individual stories and unite them into new ones. They are passed on and help us add warmth and layers to our homes. 

Holidays are an ideal time to participate in creating and participating in family traditions. Why do people want to go home for the holidays? Because people love to be around their family members! Have you ever noticed how traditions become the blanket of sentiment that we wrap ourselves in? Certain smells stir nostalgia and connects us back to our family. 

Traditions are also part of history. When you look at the Old Testament, the Israelites celebrated Passover because of the miracle God did for them. That particular tradition tells their story of freedom and it’s still passed down and celebrated today.

What are the traditions you will pass down in your family?  

Every Thanksgiving, we go around the table before we eat and pick one person we want to encourage, praise, and tell how much they mean to us. If you come to our house, you have to participate. We also remember our loved ones that are no longer with us. I love this tradition because it provides an intentional time for us to pause and reflect.

Don’t let the busyness of your daily routine cause life to pass you by without relaying the important things to your children. One day your turn to tell your story will end and your loved ones will carry it on. What do you want to do and say? What will your family remember the most about the home you’ve created? Keep in mind Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV), which says, “The Lord your God is in your midst . . . he will rejoice over you . . .” He celebrates with you!

Talk to your spouse about your favorite things you do together—traditional and untraditional. Remember, even the smallest things you do together are special. If you haven’t stopped to look at what traditions you have, talk about them over dinner. Maybe up until now you haven’t had time to set up some fun traditions—start today!

Date Night Ideas for November

Challenge 1: Chili Cook Off
Pull out your aprons and come up with your own chili recipe! Once you have perfected it, invite a few couples over with their versions of this yummy meal and then have a taste test on this fall classic. You can even vote on which recipe is the best and give a prize to the winning couple!

Challenge 2: We’re on the Same Team
Hustle, hit, never quit! Wear the school colors, sit in the home section, and cheer on a local high school football team together!

Challenge 3: Fixer-Upper
Take on a household project together. Not sure where to start? Home Depot offers free home improvement classes you can take together! Check out the schedule at a store near you. 

Did you take advantage of one of these ideas? We want to hear from you! Share your dates on social media by using the hashtag #SoFloDateNight and tagging @CCFLCouples. You can also e-mail MarriedCouples@CalvaryFTL.org about your date night story! 

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