A “Tradition” by any other name can be very dangerous.

Two statements that are deadly: " That’s not the way we do it!" " We have never done it that way before! " When I began riding bikes, wearing a helmet was not the norm. When I moved to minibikes, that was still the norm. When I moved to a motorcycle, I had to learn a very hard lesson that was actually the mercy of God. I hit the pavement, going around 50mph, landing on my head! (No comments please!) :) I was on a bike for the next 6 decades...NEVER without a helmet. Many traditions are good and serve a purpose; however, because we can become entrenched in what we do and change is always at least uncomfortable, if not even scary, we gravitate to “staying put”. Tradition becomes dangerous when it either creates pride: “I said that because that is just the way I am!” A lousy reason to justify sin! Or “it has been that way, and it will always be that way!” Really? Tell Jesus that about gravity while on the water, or how many people can 2 loaves of bread and 5 fish feed…or tell Lazurus that death is the end! Colossians 2:16-17 So don’t let anyone condemn you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating certain holy days or new moon ceremonies or Sabbaths. For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ himself is that reality. Every tradition that celebrates Christ is just a “shadow” of what the reality will be. I remember some of the “highest” worship experiences I have ever experienced were in Ohua Prison! The reality was horrible, a terrible place for some who had done unspeakable things to others. Yet, because some had experienced a new heart, a new mind, and a new nature, it felt like heaven on earth! The So What: What traditions do you hold in your life? Are they affirmed by Truth? Do you keep your traditions as fallible submitted to God’s Word? Do you hold any tradition that would lead you away from Christ? Traditions should be enjoyed, but never lead you to compromise Truth.