Tradition is similar to a Christmas tree. The star on top may or may not represent the Wise men's star; the tree may or may not represent the wooden cross of Christ; the tinsel hanging there may or may not represent something in the spirit world. But the truth is, not one person in a thousand see it as such. Santa Clause is not and does not represent Jesus. A nativity scene does, in fact, represent the truth and abides in the shadow of truth ... but, like God in public schools, nativity scenes are illegal in public places. Though "Christmas trees" and Santa Clause are not, and do not dwell in the shadow of the truth of Christmas or of Jesus Christ. Anything which distracts from the truths of Jesus' birth, life, death and resurrection ... is false and usually sin, but maybe just ignorance of truth.
Our country has lots of traditions. Some are beautiful and a few reflect spiritual truths. One of those is our Constitution, based on truth. Others are fun but have nothing to do with God. Autumn festivals have value and are worth while, but Halloween, with its witches and demons, contains nothing of worthwhile value, though it is a strong tradition in America.
I respect the right to disagree, by those who have contrary opinions, as I hope they respect my right to speak what I believe is true.
My point is this, I love and would die for the U.S. Constitution, but do not worship it. I love and would die for the Bible, but do not worship it. I love the prophets, apostles and disciples of Christ but do not worship them. I love faithful, bible preachers and Christians but do not worship them. I worship the One, Almighty, Creator, Eternal, Triune God .... and Him only. He is not a mere tradition. He is all and in all. He is the "righteous, glory that excelleth, and remaineth for eternity"....
"For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doeth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious." 2 Cor.3:9-11.
"the ministration of condemnation" is The Law of God by which He judges and condemns sin and the violators of God's will, word & glorious righteousness.
"the ministration of righteousness" is The Glory of God by which He
redeems those sinners, and which Glory includes all of God's Truth, Holiness, Love, Grace, Power, Presence and Knowledge. That is the Glory which excelleth and remaineth for eternity. None of that is tradition. It is the eternal reality of realities within our Great, Jehovah God.
Many traditions are fine and useful, temporarily, but God's Glory is Essential and Eternal. Seek Him this Christmas ... and for life. There are no traditions in heaven.
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