The God of Remember

I was headed off to a meeting tonight. It was like any night, especially in the fact that I had a meeting.

As I pulled out of the driveway, I was concerned that I might be late. But the burden was quickly lifted as I drove a couple blocks and took in the scent of freshly cut grass. Joy flooded into my heart. The summer was upon us. I smelled a firepit only seconds later. The memories of camping trips, late summer nights, and the great times as a child swept over me.

It was that moment that I thanked God for memory...

Then I continued along. Drove with my windows down along campus. Recognizing the streets, intersections, and timing of lights. I wasn't sure if I'd make it on time or not. Fortunately, I pulled to ISR, the location of the meeting, right at 8. Perfectly acceptable and on time. I really enjoyed the walk into ISR. I used to live there and the memories of my time there flooded back. The sight of the doors and the hours spent in the front lobby waiting for people came to the front of my mind. The smell of the building struck me. It has a smell doesn't it? So distinct! Out of my deepest parts rushed more memories of my time in ISR, both living there and leading a Small Group there.

It was this moment that I thanked God for the impact and memories in my life specifically...

The meeting was a bust. Nobody showed up. It was just the leaders and I. This conjures up memories of the struggles of leading a group. How easy the frustration can set in. How easily discouragement did strike me when I was in the same position. We left early, and as I prayed, I was compelled by our God of Memory. He encouraged me so powerfully with memory. Why wouldn't I bless Him in prayer for it?

It was at this moment that I was reminded of Yahweh as the God of Remember...

He asks and compels us to remember:

Exodus 20:8
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

Leviticus 26:42
I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.

Deuteronomy 7:18
But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt.

Judges 16:28
Then Samson prayed to the LORD, "O Sovereign LORD, remember me. O God, please strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes."

Psalm 25:7
Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD.

Matthew 16:9
Do you still not understand? Don't you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?

Matthew 26:75
Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: "Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Luke 23:42
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. "

Luke 24:6
He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee

I love that God calls us to remember constantly His promise, His provision, His power, and our relationship with Him.

All this because somebody thought their grass was too tall.