Stones of Remembrance

Joshua set up twelve stones that had been in the middle of the Jordan at the spot where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant had stood. And they are there to this day.

— Joshua 4:9

As the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, Joshua took a significant step to ensure that God’s miraculous intervention would never be forgotten. Each tribe sent a representative to retrieve a large stone from the riverbed, specifically from the spot where the priests had stood with the Ark of the Covenant. These stones were set up as a memorial, a tangible reminder of God’s power and faithfulness in bringing Israel safely across the river.

The practice of setting up memorial stones was common in the Old Testament. These physical markers served to provoke questioning and storytelling, ensuring that future generations would hear of God’s mighty acts. In Genesis 28:18-22, Jacob set up a stone pillar after his dream at Bethel, and in 1 Samuel 7:12, Samuel raised a stone he called Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” These memorials were more than just markers; they were tools for teaching and remembering God’s faithfulness.

As Christians today, we too can benefit from creating memorials to commemorate God’s interventions in our lives. These memorials do not have to be physical stones; they can be anything that helps us remember and celebrate God’s work. It might be a journal entry, a photograph, a piece of art, a song, or any creation that symbolizes a moment when God acted powerfully on our behalf. By setting up these markers, we not only honor God but also create opportunities to share our testimonies with others.

Consider asking God what memorial He would have you create to remember His victories in your life. Listen to His guidance and create something that will remind you and others of His faithfulness. Just as the Israelites’ stones at the Jordan prompted storytelling and remembrance, your memorials can serve as powerful reminders of God’s ongoing work in your life. Let these memorials encourage your faith and inspire those around you.

PRAYER