Traditions: A Blessing or a Curse?

Traditions can be both a blessing and a curse. While they bring warmth and comfort, they can also limit our ability to experience new and exciting things, especially in the Church.

I personally love many traditions because they create a sense of warmth and connection. For instance, one of our family traditions is eating pizza on Christmas Eve after the Candlelight Service at church. This tradition began on the second Christmas of our marriage and has continued every year—except one—for over 40 years. Our children and grandchildren now join us, making it a fun and simple way to be together and celebrate the season.

However, traditions can also be limiting, especially when they prevent us from embracing new opportunities. As a pastor, I have often heard the phrase, "We’ve never done it that way before." Unfortunately, this mindset can prevent churches from experiencing God’s work in unique and meaningful ways. While change can be challenging, it is often rewarding.

At the church where I currently pastor, the leadership team is generally open to fresh ideas and new methods of serving and sharing the message of Jesus Christ. While a few individuals may struggle with change, the vast majority of our congregation is open and willing. One example is my role as the interim pastor for another congregation, in addition to pastoring my own church. Although I share the same sermons and messages in both locations, I am deeply blessed to serve both congregations and pray that my ministry is a blessing to them as well.

Many pastors are not given the opportunity to minister to two congregations, yet others may preach multiple times on Sunday mornings at their home church. The ultimate goal is to serve the Lord Jesus Christ, share His message, and bless as many people as possible.

What is truly exciting about serving two congregations is witnessing their gradual growth in a world filled with so many struggling souls. As we seek to spread the message of Christ, we must remember the words of Jesus in Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Jesus never meant for His disciples to limit themselves to a particular way of witnessing. He simply called them to go, be His witnesses, and share His love everywhere, at any time, and in any way possible.

As we celebrate our cherished traditions, may we also remain open to new and exciting ways to serve our Lord.