Reminders
You have the fringe so that, when you see it,
you will remember all the commandments of the Lord and do them. —Numbers 15:39
READ: Numbers 15:37-41
REFLECT: I admire people who have good memories. My dad, now 76 years old, has a knack for remembering things—birth dates, names of people he taught in school, dates when his garden plants will mature, and so on. Unfortunately, I did not inherit his good memory. I make lists of things to do and keep track of important dates on my calendar.
I count on photographs, journal entries, and scrapbooks to refresh my memory. My wedding band reminds me of my marriage vows. A cross around my neck reminds me of my decision to follow Christ. In a small way, these reminders help me understand why the Lord wanted the Israelites to make fringes on the corners of their garments. These would remind them and future generations to follow God’s ways and live a holy life before God.
As God’s people, we too need such reminders. They are not just for us, but also for future generations. When I hear stories of how my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents followed God, I am encouraged in my faith. I see how God cared for them. When I reflect upon my spiritual journey, I think about how God has been close to me.
It is easy for us to forget God’s faithfulness when we go through difficult times. We may not wear fringes on our garments, but if we look for them, we can find reminders all around us of God’s presence in our lives.
—Sandi Hannigan Marr
RESPOND: Faithful God, help me remember the ways you’ve been with me in the past so I can trust you for my cares today and for the future. May I live a holy life before you.