Making Plans To Remember

Making Plans To Remember

Text: Joshua 4

Introduction

Sometime we are guilty of being PAST ORIENTED as well as FUTURE ORIENTED.

Past oriented = those were the best days. None could be better

Future oriented = discontent with the present and change everything. A path of radicalization.

None of us have lived, lived now, or going to live on this side of Heaven in a fantasy world! Neither the past, present, not earthly future is perfect.

This fourth chapter of Joshua, however, grapples with the fact that a basic component of life is a hope for the future that is based on the memories of the past—which help bring meaning to the present. Jr. Huffman John A. and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, Joshua, vol. 6, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1986), 76.

Quote: They are the soil of our present experiences into which our roots sink deeply and from which we receive nourishment. The superstructures of our lives are built upon the foundation of our memories. Jr. Huffman John A. and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, Joshua, vol. 6, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1986), 76.

We are instructed by our memories as to the most creative way to live in the present, and they help equip us with a positive hope for the future. Jr. Huffman John A. and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, Joshua, vol. 6, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1986), 76.

1) The Value Of Memory Rocks

This chapter dramatically reveals the importance of remembering.

Israel has finally passed over the Jordan River.

The priests had, all this time, kept high the ark of the covenant so that all those passing over could see it.

God had held back the southward flow of the Jordan River, enabling the people to cross over on dry ground. Jr. Huffman John A. and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, Joshua, vol. 6, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1986), 79.

God instructed Joshua to build a monument through the efforts of 12 men (one from each tribe).

This was to memorialize the miracle God performed.

FIRST — to remember God’s great provision

SECOND — not to forget about God’s works

THIRD — don’t forget to be thankful

FOURTH — remember what God has done for others

FIFTH — someone made a reminder for you and those to come

SIXTH — it was a simple memorial

SEVEN — we have a duty to cooperate unity

God instructed Joshua to build another memorial.

I suppose this was his own monument or memory.

This monument was built right where the priests stood; in the middle of the river bed.

This SHATTERS a rugged INDIVIDUALISM or ‘Lone Ranger’ model for leadership.

As God’s leader leads he must keep in view of the family, people, and in their case, the nation.

Our solidarity is of pinnacle significance!!!

2) Memories Are Valuable To You & Your Family

There is always a place for memorials.

Both pillars of stones were simply a continuing sermon.

A sermon for the EYES.

Not a sermon about what their own ability, strength, or cleverness, BUT OF GOD!

We need to be reminded of how important it is to be reminded and meditate on those memories.

Examples: Noah/rainbow, Abraham/circumcision, Miriam’s poetry/Red Sea, Ark/God’s provision, Temple/God’s dwelling, Cross & Tomb/love and grace...

Home leaders, how long has it been since you sat down and reflected with your family???

Places

Like the steps at Central Baptist

The altar — I asked Andie to marry me and were I married her

My dad’s bedroom

Where God healed your marriage

Where you child came into the world

Where you received your diagnosis

DON’T HIDE THEM AWAY

People

Family, church, friends, college, neighbors

DON’T HIDE THEM AWAY

Experiences

Do you keep record of yours?

I turned to an old planner and read, “today there was no heartbeat!”

This can be painful, but even more so, a place to rejoice of God’s faithfulness.

Physical gestures — that placed an exclamation mark at the end of your spiritual decision

God’s Word — The greatest book of memories you will ever have!

I recommend you read your Bible.

I also recommend you keep it in plain sight. It reminds you and your family belong to the Lord.