Joshua 4: 6,7 6 that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ 7 Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever.”
A recent trip to Washington DC served as a much-needed reminder of the freedom we take for granted. Hearing about the rich history of this nation reminded me about the privilege of being a citizen of a great country which was founded on biblical principles.
Each beautiful monument was a sign and witness to the price of freedom and the selfless sacrifice of men and women in the name of freedom.
The memorials brought me back to the old testament and to the several instances where the children of Israel were instructed to set up “memorials”. Joshua set up a pile of memorial stones in the bottom of the river Jordan so that when the waters receded the piles of stones would serve as a reminder of God’s goodness towards them. It also was a reminder to their children of God’s greatness and goodness throughout the past generations. And lastly it was a sign and witness to the world about a miracle working God.
Often, it is easy to forget about the wondrous ways our Lord leads us. It is especially easy to grumble and whine when things do not go our way or when our prayers are unanswered. It is easy to overlook the great miracles our Lord has done on our behalf. Many times, it requires a deliberate effort to sit and reflect on His goodness.
As we live a life of freedom and hope, let us memorialize our Lord’s faithfulness. May our life and testimony serve to influence the world to believe in our wonder working God.
Amen