Setting a Reminder

Scripture: So the Israelites did as Joshua commanded them. They took twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, as the Lord had told Joshua; and they carried them over with them to their camp, where they put them down. Joshua set up the twelve stones that had been in the middle of the Jordan at the spot where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant had stood. And they are there to this day. Joshua 4:8-9

Observation: As a reminder of this great act - a second parting of waters to provide for the safety of Israel - the people are commanded to create a memorial. The 12 stones are significant in size, and set up with intention and man-made organization, to clearly be a symbol. That symbol is to remind Israel of the blessing and love and might of the Lord. When they see the stones, they are to tell their children about what happened. The stones are to remind Israel of the truth about the Lord.

Application: The Lord has provided for me in so many ways, the reminders are around me. My wife, children, and home are reminders, and I thank the Lord for them regularly. When I think of my family, I often think about how great God has been in my life. I am reminded that he delivered me from a life of death, provided joy and a future, and guided me into a relationship with him.

I should have more such reminders, for they do work well. I should see elements of my current job as a reminder of his carrying me through struggles. I should see my church as a reminder of the wonders I have seen there and the lives I have seen changed through his spirit.

I have been seeking ways to keep the Lord central in my daily thought, and physical items that remind me of his greatness would be a way. These are not idols, as the rocks from the Jordan were not an idol to be worshipped, but rather something that reminds me of the truth about God's love, and triggers in my heart a thought and an attitude of worship, reverence, thanksgiving, and love.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your help this day, in guiding me in finding ways to connect with and serve you. May I be reminded of your love, laws, grace, judgment, precepts, and mercy daily. I seek to be closer to you, and I thank you for loving me first. Amen.