I’ve had a nice time of remembering some special dates recently, including my father’s, son’s, and husband’s birthdays. We celebrated David’s big day with a Star Wars party, which included a special visit from several of the movies’ characters (friends from our church in terrific costumes). David rescued Princess Leia, then defeated Darth Vader in a light saber duel, to the delight of his friends.
Elsewhere my venerable hometown, Phillipsburg, New Jersey, observed its 150th anniversary with week-long festivities.
And when I purchased stamps at the post office, I chose a sheet that commemorated the 50th anniversary of America’s first manned space flight, Alan Shepherd’s epic journey in April 1961.
Our nation is in the beginning stages of a four-year observance of the Civil War, which began in April 1861, at the same time that Phillipsburg was incorporated as a town.
It’s important to remember such dates in the middle of our everydayness, to honor those we love, as well as those who have contributed to America’s rich heritage, particularly the ones who gave their lives to defend our freedoms.
I think the most important aspect of remembering, however, is to recall what God has done. The Bible is filled with admonitions to remember, recall, look back, consider—the mighty works of God on behalf of His people.
Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “You shall remember the Lord your God.” In Psalm 42, the writer recalls happier times in his faith journey when God put great joy in his heart. Doing so helped him get through his tough, present experience. As God has been faithful in the past, He will prove faithful in the present, and future. He who does not change is faithfulness itself, and He will guide us now and always. Psalm 105:8 says, “He remembers his covenant forever, the word that he commanded for a thousand generations. . . . “
Tags: Alan Shepherd, NJ, Phillipsburg
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