I remember the day that Sarah was born. I remember that little baby with the cutest toes, wearing a blanket and a funny-looking cap, and demonstrating a healthy – and loud – set of lungs. I remember the first time our eyes met as she laid in the warming bed. I remember looking at her, tears in my eyes, and marveling at the wonder of this little new creation. I remember thanking God for his marvelous, matchless love that made her possible. I remember thanking God for allowing me to participate in his ongoing creation through this little, new life. Over 30 years have passed since that day in Sewickley Valley Hospital. Sarah is now a mother herself having just 10 months ago helped God to bring two new and wondrous creations into the world. All of these years later I still remember the details of that March day. I still remember the sense of wonder and overwhelming joy at God’s love revealed in that little baby. I remember and give thanks. And, remembering, I am renewed in hope.

I remember… Simple, yet profound words. Remembering the past gives stability in the present and hope for the future. That is probably what God had in mind when in Deuteronomy he issued the first command to observe the Sabbath (“Observe the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” 15:12) and then followed up with these words of challenge:
Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore, the Lord your God commanded you to keep the sabbath day. (Deut. 15:15)
“Remember,” Deuteronomy said, and proceeded to remind the people of a piece of the history of their salvation. Sabbath was set aside to give God’s people an opportunity to remember the amazing acts of God in their past that they might be empowered to face the challenges of their todays and the uncertainties of their tomorrows.

In our darkest days, remembering the faithfulness of God in the past can give us courage. In our brightest days, remembering the glory of God in the past can enrich our joy. God commands us to observe sabbath rest that we might set aside time to intentionally remember. “Observe the Sabbath Day and keep it holy,” God commanded. As you do, remember. Call to mind the wonders and faithfulness and love of God in the past – your personal past or our collective past as people of faith. Thank God for that which is remembered. And move forward after a time of sabbath rest, better equipped to be a disciple in an often challenging world.

Time for reflection:
• How has God been faithful to you over the years? Find a quiet place and remember those times. Say a prayer of thanks for each of those times.