Memorials

January 18

Genesis 34-35:15

Psalm 11:1-3

Proverbs 3:1-2

Matthew 12:1-21

Memorials

“Jacob set up a stone pillar at the place where God had talked with him, and he poured out a drink offering on it, and he also poured oil on it.  Jacob called the place where God had talked with him Bethel.” 

Genesis 35:14-15 NIV

I love history.  It absolutely fascinates me.  I love to visit historic sites and learn about the events that took place there. My idea of a vacation is one in which I have been to a new place and learned something new.  My family does not have the same idea of a vacation.  They love to go lie on a beach somewhere, sleep late every day and not have an agenda.  I have learned to compromise over the years and do enjoy relaxing with a good book.  But I still insist on some historical/educational enrichment every now and then.  Several years ago, my mother, my daughter, and I went to Paris.  We visited typical tourist attractions in the city, but one of my favorite things we did on the trip was visiting Normandy.  We rented a car and drove through the French countryside to the beaches at Normandy and the American War Memorial where 9,694 American soldiers are buried.  The scene was tranquil and the view over the English Channel was breathtaking.  It seems that is the case with most memorials I have visited.   They are places of quiet reflection.  Those who visit, even small children, seem to sense respect and reverence. 

Throughout the Old Testament we find the children of God setting up memorials, places of remembrance.  This was usually done after God had acted in a miraculous way on their behalf.  They wanted to remember what God had done for them and they wanted everyone who saw the memorial to know that their God was the one true God and that He provides for His children.   We have such short memories.  God performs in a mighty way in our lives and for a while our faith is strong, but then the worries of our everyday lives creep back in.  We forget about all the times He has proven Himself able to handle anything that comes our way.  Very early in our marriage, my husband and I learned about Memorial Boxes and decided to make one for our home.  The concept comes from these passages and the idea is to set up a memorial to remind us of the times when God has shown Himself faithful to us in an extraordinary way.  We have a large shadow box filled with objects/pictures that represent each of those times hanging in our house.  It is not only a reminder to us about those times, but also a wonderful teaching opportunity for our children.  We have had countless opportunities to share with others who ask about the box filled with strange objects and tell them about our God who loves us and has proven Himself over and over.