History 101

Thank you to Anne Smith for sharing the devotional last week. Last week my family and I went on vacation to the East coast. We spent the week in Williamsburg, Virginia and had a great time visiting the historical sites in the area. The area is known as America's Historic Triangle, rich with history from America's earliest English settlement in Jamestown in the 17th century to the battle sites of the Revolutionary War in Yorktown and scenes of colonial life in the 18th century. We also took in some of the sights in Washington D.C. The entire region has so much history to remind us of our country's beginnings.  

All-in-all, it was a very educational trip for us and our kids. Although I've been to this area before and learned about the history of it in school, it was good to be reminded of the people, the events, and the principles upon which America was founded. Many generations made great sacrifices to build the country from the ground up and institute the freedoms we currently have. We know our country has many problems, many of which have come to the forefront in recent years. But in spite of it all, we live in a great country for which we should be deeply thankful. I think understanding its history, which isn't perfect, should only serve to make us more thankful especially as we approach our nation's birthday. To be honest, I think our kids were more grateful for the pool and the waterpark than anything else but why can't we be thankful for both (I trust they will appreciate the history more as they grow older).

The Bible reminds us to remember the past and be thankful for the things God has done. Moses says in Deuteronomy 32:7 "Remember the days of old; consider the years of many generations; ask your father, and he will show you, your elders, and they will tell you." In the same way we should appreciate our nation's history, Moses tells the Israelites to remember their history and God's faithfulness to them. This is an important lesson for us. As Christians, despite the difficulties we experience, we should always remember what God has done for us: how He has chosen us, made a covenant with us, sacrificed for us, and abides with us that we might live for Him. And, if necessary, we should ask our forefathers and elders to tell us of God's faithfulness in the past.

God bless,

Pastor Darren