I just finished watching the “PBS National Memorial Day Concert.” So many pictures with so many memories. I remember that morning of 9-11, turning on the TV and seeing the plane fly into the second tower. We had just returned to the USA, our belongings were now locked in LA harbor, and I was getting children ready for school. That is a strong memory in my mind. I have a son in the Army, stationed abroad. He is always in my mind and heart. Near the end of the program, the commentators said that the word that sums up Memorial Day that we celebrate today is the word “remember.” We remember all who have fought to protect the freedoms we enjoy and who are on the field now. It is not just an American sentiment!
I love Lion King. Simba runs to the river and looks in the water and then from the cloud hears his deceased father, Mufasa, tell him “Remember, remember who you are.” In Psalm 103 the psalmist talks about God remembering his creation,
As a father has compassion for his children,
so the Lord has compassion for those who fear him.
For he knows how we were made;
he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:13,14)
God remembers that we are dust. We are told elsewhere that our names are etched on his hands. For those who seek forgiveness our sins are put as far away as the East is from the West. He doesn’t remember that which needs to be forgotten. God does not get dementia and forget our names or confuse us with someone else. Our names are written in his book of life. Our God knows us and remembers us.
As you remember today people who have contributed to make you who you are today, jot down their name on a piece of paper and write one word next to it that was one of their contributions to you. Then pray over the list and end by thanking God for remembering that we are dust and need his help.
On the Way to Wonder 