If smell is the sense most closely connected to memory, then Christmas is the holiday most closely associated with traditions. Looking back, I recall traditions of Christmas caroling, attending Christmas Eve services, opening one present the night before Christmas, listening to Christmas music, and the most prominent tradition of all, reciting Luke 2:1-20. 

It’s so etched in my mind. While reading to my daughters, the Bible fell to my lap but I continued reading aloud without the text in front of me.

Traditions are wonderful. They’re what we look forward to most this time of year – the wrapping, the tinsel, the twinkling lights, and time spent with those we hold dear. Traditions bring fond memories to mind. They immortalize special moments spent with loved ones.

Christmas itself is one of the greatest traditions of all. If it weren’t for the reason we celebrate, we would all be without hope, no reason to recall the past. But now, we look to the past and are provided hope for the future.