Day 6

Our memories are part of what makes us who we are.

‘Watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.’ (Deuteronomy 4:9)

The book of Deuteronomy has a lot to say about parents and children. One of the most significant lessons for parents, and all of us, is the importance of keeping memories alive.

In many ways the Book of Deuteronomy is all about remembering things. It’s a book that is written in the 39th year of the 40-year journey the Israelites made from Egypt to Canaan. Moses is in his last year before dying, and he is reviewing the history of God’s working amongst them as a people. He uses the word ‘remember’ in Deuteronomy 16 times.

God also chooses to reveal Himself through memories. Every time we take communion we do so because Jesus said, ‘Do this in remembrance of me’ (Luke 22:19). He told them to remember what he told them (John 15:20). We have first to create memories and then we can recall them. Especially when things get tough, remember the good times with God and then remind ourselves of His faithfulness. That’s what the book of Deuteronomy encourages us to do.

What important memories of God’s work are you keeping alive?