“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.”
Ephesians 2:10-20 (KJV)
Ten-year old Brenda sat with tears streaming down her face. She had been remembering her deceased mother and suddenly realized that she couldn’t remember her face anymore. It had been a tragic day in Brenda’s young life when her mom had died. Brenda exercise great wisdom and maturity when she explained to friends that she was happy for mom because she had suffered so long with the cancer and now she wouldn’t be suffering anymore in heaven. But then her dad had decided to accept a job promotion, which required a move to a new city. And since he had met Charlotte, well, he just wasn’t there for her anymore. Brenda suddenly felt alone.
Brenda was so absorbed with her thoughts that she didn’t know he had sat down until his arms enclosed her in his warm embrace. After a few more moments of tears, dad brushed them away and assured her that she would always enjoy his love and care. Then he opened the family album. Together, they just sat there enjoying the memories. Brenda also began to consider her present circumstances in a positive light. At least this neighborhood didn’t have fences around every yard. She had already met new friends who accepted her and didn’t treat her like an outsider anymore. She finally concluded that she was as blessed as anyone else she knew.
Memory is a good thing. Remembering the past should motivate us to recognize the blessings of the present. While reminiscing, however, don’t forget that the future will be even better!
Dear Father, thank you for Jesus Christ who has delivered me from my past and has given me hope for my future. O Lord, enable me to forget my failures and press toward the prize of your high calling. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Let us praise God for Jesus Christ and live in the hope, which he provides,
Pastor Smith