One thing I’ve been thinking about lately is the feasts celebrated by the more traditional churches. These include things like: - The Baptism of Jesus - The Annunciation - celebrating when Mary received the news that she would give birth to Christ - The Ascension of Christ - Feasts commemorating the Apostles - Pentecost - The Transfiguration - All Saints’ Day And there are many more. But it raises a question that I think many of us should ask ourselves: Why has so much of the modern Church abandoned these traditions? Why can church leadership get riled up over a sports game, celebrate all kinds of cultural traditions, and make a big deal about countless things—but when you bring up the historic practices of the Church, the saints, or the Christian calendar, the response is often, “We’ve gotta be careful of idolatry, brother.” To be clear, I’m not saying these are things we must participate in, nor am I saying they provide salvation. Salvation is not earned by observing feast days. But if we are called to be “slaves to righteousness,” as Paul says in Romans, why are we so often looking for loopholes to avoid putting in the work or practicing the same devotion and obedience demonstrated by those who came before us? The question isn’t simply, “Do I have to do this to be saved?” Maybe the better question is: “If this practice helps me remember Christ, honor the faith handed down to me, and live more faithfully, why am I so eager to find a reason not to do it?” Think on it, men. I’d genuinely love to hear your response.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. Ephesians 6:13-14 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.

Shalom everyone and thank you brother Russell