Exploring a Unique Cultural Tradition
One of my core values is lifelong learning. Travel is one way that enables me to live out that value. During our trip to San Antonio, Texas in October, we experienced a cultural tradition I had heard about but had no knowledge of—Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. I hope you’ll read more in today’s post …
I understand and honor a preference for living in the same homogeneous community, but since early childhood, I have always wanted to explore that which was “beyond.” I enjoy history, like unique people, and treasure a variety of cultural experiences.
Twenty years ago, Ron and I made our first international trip, a cultural immersion and missions’ trip to South Africa. It was amazing, and a piece of my heart will always be attached to the unseen, undulating rhythm of that vast and beautiful land.
Whether traveling internationally, or within the 50 United States, each location holds its own geographic beauty, cultural uniqueness, and distinct culinary flavors. While I generally don’t make significant changes and always love returning to my own home, curiosity and oftentimes additional exploration help me understand, appreciate, and even love those who experience life through a different lens than I, which I sincerely believe has given me a better glimpse into the heart of God.
From October 17-24, Ron and I explored the region around San Antonio, Texas, where folks were gearing up for a special ethnic holiday. Dia de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday celebrated from October 31 to November 2, honors and remembers deceased loved ones.
Since the city’s population is over 60 percent Hispanic, this holiday is a big deal. Every day we were in San Antonio, we visited their renowned Riverwalk, which was less than a block away from where we stayed. During that time, artwork of local Mexican artisans, which focused on the upcoming holiday, was featured all along the Riverwalk. I’m including a couple photos in today’s post.
When I feel like I am unimpressive and standing alone, keep on remembering that Jesus looks at my heart, and even seemingly insignificant things done in his name matter:
And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Matthew 10:42 (NLT)
Thinking about this Mexican holiday triggered reflections about people who are no longer living but whose lives have had a significant impact on my own. My parents. My beloved in-laws and Ron’s brother. Our grandparents. Aunts, uncles, and cousins. Friends and colleagues. Each has left an indelible etching in my soul.
Next, I thought about a couple chapters in Scripture that are favorites of mine—Hebrews 11 and 12.
All about faith, Hebrews 11 opens with an explanation: (I’m quoting from the ESV- English Standard Version)
11 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the people of old received their commendation. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
The remainder of chapter 11 is sometimes referred to as the “Hall of Faith,” because it extols the faith of those who are no longer living but whose influence remains.
Chapter 12 begins:
12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
The remainder of this chapter encourages believers that even though the journey of faith is not always easy, it is always worthwhile. The chapter concludes,
28 Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe …
As we enter the latter part of Autumn 2025, I pray you will be blessed in many ways and that you will consider the significance of those people—dead or still living—who have influenced—or still influence—you.
Blessings on your journey,
