Scripture:
Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
John 21:20-25
Reflection:
“There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25
It’s mind-boggling really to think about the many ways that Jesus touched lives while he walked on the earth and the many ways that He continues to touch them today. Truly, there would not be room in the whole world to contain the books if we each wrote down what He has done for us. But that shouldn’t stop us from writing!
The power and value of writing down our stories is inestimable. Journaling is a great way to keep track of all the Lord has taught us and all the things He has done in our lives because we so easily forget as time goes on. Telling our stories helps us remember too. Every year at Passover, the Israelites recalled what God had done for them by telling the story of His love and provision for them. They knew the importance of remembering the story and passing it on to future generations. Jewish families are still telling the story today at their Seder meals each year. By celebrating this way, everyone enters the story and it becomes their story too.
If you have children, it’s good to tell them the story of how you met, fell in love, and married. And more importantly, how God has been a part of your story. It gives the children a sturdy foundation on which to build their lives, and helps them feel secure and loved. You will also benefit by telling your story, because it takes you back to that special time in your life and helps the spark of love that brought you together continue to burn brightly through the decades. Anniversaries are a perfect time for remembering and celebrating the blessings of marriage.
By writing down the ways God has touched our lives, we have a rich storehouse to go to when we are facing trials and hard times. As we recall all that God has done for us, we can’t help but have hope for the future. Finally, for those of us with the real possibility of getting Alzheimers, I realized that if that time comes, I will simply be able to read my journals and books, to know all about myself and my life. I will be able to see that God was faithful to help me in the past, and so I can trust Him all the way home. Writing and telling our stories not only benefits us, but is a way for us to give glory to our awesome God and encourage others in their walk with Him.
As we recall all that God has done for each of us let us pray with Mary, “The Lord has done great things for me and holy is His Name.”
Janice Carleton and her husband Jim live in Bainbridge Island, Washington, and partner with Passionist Fr. Cedric Pisegna in Fr. Cedric Ministries. She is the mother of 4 grown children and grandmother of 6. Janice also leads women’s retreats and recently published her second book: God IS with Us. Visit Janice’s website at http://www.janicecarleton.com/ or email her at [email protected].