Why Don't We Remember

Joshua 4

Reading through Joshua, I realized that You again led the people through the water. Crossing the Jordan, You held the waters up miraculously so that all of Israel could cross through on dry land. And after the people got through, they picked up twelve stones to make a monument, an altar, to remember what You had done for them.

Except, we don't really remember this miracle. Despite their actions, the parting of the Reed Sea is way more remembered than this parting of the Jordan. This is one of those miracles where I wouldn't even remember it unless someone was like, "Didn't God part the Jordan when the people were going into the land." Oh, right, yea. I think He did...

Well, the stones really weren't for me to remember anyway, but they serve a good point. Why do we have such a hard time remembering the things You've done for us? Set aside the arduous task of even recognizing what You've done (I'm finding that to be difficult in and of itself!) Sometimes, You act obviously. Oftentimes, we even forget that!

It would be an interesting study to think about the things that I should remember. What have You done that You are really proud of in my life? With the Israelites, it's obvious to see that You are really proud of helping them out of Egypt and into the promised land. "I am the God who brought You out of Egypt" is a real common theme and phrase throughout the Bible. That seems to be the defining moment of who You are for the nation of Israel. So what is my defining moment, the one I need to constantly look back on?

And I don't want to force this, maybe not everyone has a "defining moment" of God working. But I think I do. Back in college, that I always quote all the time in all sorts of sermons and school teachings. Why do I love You? Because You made me give it up, and then gave it back to me. You wanted me to be prepared to give it all to You, and then You gave it back to me. You are the God who does that. You are the God who wants to be first, above all, but if You are You allow us to enjoy the blessings of this world You created. Love, family, security... they are all given back to us when we would give them up for You.

Perhaps that is what I need to remember. It certainly would help my slowly and attentively if I could remember that You are the #1 priority in my life. You the God who gives back with blessing, help me remember You.