We jokingly talk about, how as a person gets older, forgetting seems to be part of the equation. As we age, our memories aren’t as good. We don’t remember names and faces like we used to. Memorizing sentences, speeches, verses, directions (you name it), just doesn’t go as smoothly as it used to…if at all. I used to never forget a name and a face. Now I’m good enough to remember my own name, and the face staring back at me in the mirror doesn’t look like I remembered. 🙂 I also used to memorize my sermons and then graduated to a very minimal outline. COVID and age changed that!
I’m sure we have all heard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The original bill establishing the Tomb was in 1921 in remembrance of the unknown soldiers who fought in WWI and were buried on the battlefield, often where they fell. In 1956 President Eisenhower signed a bill to pay tribute to soldiers who died from WWII and the Korean War. The tombstone reads, “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” That tomb has remained guarded at all times, in all kinds of weather 24/7/365 since 1937. On April 6, 1948 the Third US Infantry Regiment took over the task of guarding the Tomb.
In Psalm 78, the psalmist is reminding the people of Israel of all God has done for them and that they must not forget. He recounts the goodness of God because, as we all know, it is easy to forget. I realize Thanksgiving is still over a month away, but why not start now remembering all of God’s goodness to you/me over the year?
In fact, why did you/I ever stop?
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Jo, Tami, and I are leaving this morning for a quick trip to Ohio to see our family. We will be returning on Saturday. Prayers for our safety would be appreciated. I will respond to comments as I have time (and Wifi). Have a great weekend.
Having a heart of gratitude has become increasingly rare in a world of entitlement. Being Thankful for the provisions we have… even the simple things help keep our wants in perspective.
The problem with “wanting” is the that it never stops.
I am working to memorize the following verse this week…
For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from the world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever. 1 John 2:16-17
Long verse this week… but I think it speaks to the “cravings” that make us feel like we want more…
Thanks for the reminder to slow down on my wants and be thankful for what God has already provided.
Have a safe and enjoyable visit!!!
Long but good. I’m glad you are younger than me and can still remember.
Praying for safe travels, Bill. And we should count our blessings each and every day.
Blessings!
Thx Martha. And yes we need to count our blessings
Praying for safe travels Bill.
Being grateful should be the first thing that comes to our minds at all times, but honestly it is not. God’s goodness is countless, the amount times He pours out His grace, mercy and love, its never ending. Father, help me to remember Your goodness daily and to live a life that praises You first, is always grateful, and always humble.
Thx Gail. You are right. Gratitude should be first in our day and our lives.
So true that we need to be grateful and give God thanks and praise every day of our lives, not just on one day that is set aside for Thanksgiving. Living with continual gratitude is such a peaceful way to live. I hope you had a wonderful trip to Ohio, Pastor Bill.
My focus during November in my sermons is just this Cheryl. “More Than a Holiday”