Ephesians 5:20

giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:20

I am thankful for our little traditions in our family: coffee time, meal devotions, bedtime devotions, & morning prayer.

Coffee time was something Ernie and I began about fifteen years ago when we wanted to have quality time for about twenty minutes each day to talk without interruptions (kids, computers, phones, laundry, etc...), and to enjoy a good cup or two of coffee. 

Meal time devotions is something that was done in both our own homes growing up, and something done for generations. Lord willing, our own children and grandchildren will continue this time of reading the Bible and praying after dinner each evening.

Bedtime devotions began when our kids were toddlers, a tradition I learned from my uncle, Bill. When my kids were younger, we read Bible stories and prayed. We continue this, reading the Bible and praying, even though our kids are teenagers and I go to bed before them. 

And finally, morning prayer. Before our kids go off to school, I exclaim, "time to pray!" which signals to them to quickly do those last minute tasks and meet in the kitchen. My prayer focuses on their work being done for God, that they shine their lights around their peers, and to pray for safety.