Happy “Cow Hug Day”! That is if you are a citizen of India. Cows traditionally are considered sacred by Hindus. The Animal Welfare Board declared February 14 as Cow Hug Day because the bovine is known as the “backbone of Indian culture and rural economy.”
     The move to rename the holiday from Valentine’s Day was an attempt to slow down the westernization of India. The push to hug cows was an effort to promote Vedic or sacred Hindu traditions. Sadly, the bid to rebrand Valentine’s Day backfired, as Cow Hug Day became the target of jokes, cartoons, and memes.

     Life changes. Sometimes for the best and sometimes not. The same principle holds true for tradition. Some traditions should be changed, while others should not. (I will leave it to you to decide which traditions should be kept.)

     Traditions are rituals, stories, beliefs, and customs that we share and pass on. Traditions are of great importance within Christianity. Paul encouraged his newly planted churches to “maintain the traditions” he had introduced. In particular, Paul valued the spiritual disciplines of fellowship, prayer, worship, and the reading of Scripture corporately as the Body of Christ. These specific traditions take on an even greater value when practiced routinely by families.

     For Christians, these traditional actions provide stability in an ever-changing world. Traditions anchor our souls and further connect us with God, as well as each other. They also remind us of who we are and with whom we belong.

     So, however, you choose to celebrate February 14th, consider how you might best honor those who laid the foundation of faith upon which you stand today. Even more, put into practice the tradition of loving God and neighbor that Jesus established for each of us. Don’t be afraid to follow the herd as you make these traditions customary.

     And, if you must hug a cow.