“Then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever.” Joshua 4:7
May 27, 2024
It was essential that Israel perpetually remember the stupendous miracle performed at the crossing at the blocked waters of the Jordan so all two million could march into the Promised Land. Twelve stones were placed in the River and twelve stones were erected at Gilgal near Jericho. It became kind of a National Park to aid parents in their instruction of their children. They must never forget God’s presence among His people. So we observe Memorial Day in order to remember that our freedoms as a nation have been bought with the blood of men and women who sacrificed their lives. Under the right circumstances patriotism is a virtue not a vice. In recent years, truth infused patriotism has been on the decline. Israel’s memorials at the Jordan were to keep God’s covenant people mindful of the future. The memorial stones had the broader purpose of instructing “all the peoples of the earth that the hand of the Lord is mighty” (Josh. 4:24). As Christians within our nation, we have the greater responsibility to live fearing the Lord and proclaiming the gospel. The Savior of the world died to give us the power to live victoriously over the penalty and power of sin. Remember that this day, dear Christian friend.
H
“Almighty God, I thank you for the sacrifices made so that we can live as free people.”