One disadvantage of aging is memory impairment. Things that once came easily to me don’t anymore. The first thing to go was my ability to remember people’s names. Then other episodes of memory lapses occurred. Sometimes I look at a student I’ve taught for two years and can’t remember their name. Or even recall the grammar concept I’m currently teaching. Memory lapses frighten me. Some things I enjoy forgetting—the hurts, disappointments, and trials. But there are other things I want to retain until my final breath.
As Joshua prepared to lead God’s people into the Promised Land, God instructed him to construct a pile of remembrance stones. Tell them, “Take twelve stones from the very place where the priests are standing in the middle of the Jordan…and pile them up at the place where you will camp tonight (Joshua 4:3 NLT).”
I’ve laid a few remembrance stones in my lifetime as well. One is that God is guiding my life whether or not I always perceive his presence. He was there in tangible ways for the Israelites—and he has been for me on occasion. But more often than not, his presence manifests itself in a calm, unexplainable peace.
Another stone is my assurance of God’s protection. No circumstance can come into my life unless he initiates it or allows it. He promises to protect me because I’m his child.
I’ve also laid the stone of experience with God. He and I have a history together. For forty-two years, I’ve walked with him and he with me. I can glance back and see footprints in the sand. He’s never failed me yet, and he won’t in the future.
Have you laid stones of remembrance in your life?
Prayer: Thank You Lord for the markers along the way that remind us of Your presence and power in our lives.
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