Remember Your Rivers (Joshua 4:21-24)

Remembering Our Rivers: A Journey Through Faith and History

In the tapestry of our lives, we often encounter rivers—metaphorical obstacles that seem insurmountable. These rivers represent challenges, transitions, and moments of uncertainty. But as we navigate these waters, it's crucial to remember that we are not the first to face such trials. Our ancestors, our communities, and those who came before us have all crossed their own rivers, leaving behind stories of triumph and perseverance that can inspire and guide us.

The book of Joshua provides a powerful illustration of this concept. As the Israelites prepared to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land, God instructed them to take twelve stones from the riverbed—one for each tribe—and set them up as a memorial. This act wasn't merely about decoration; it was about creating a lasting reminder of God's faithfulness and power.

"When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, 'What are these stones?' then you shall let your children know, saying, 'Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry land.' For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed over." (Joshua 4:21-23)

This passage highlights several important reasons why we must remember our rivers:

Institutional Memory is Fading

In today's fast-paced world, the stories of our past are often lost or forgotten. Schools may no longer teach the full breadth of our history, and families may be too busy with daily life to pass down their experiences. It's up to us to actively preserve and share these stories, ensuring that future generations understand the rivers that were crossed for them to stand where they are today.

The Significance May Be Overlooked

Without context, the "stones" of our history—whether they're statues, holidays, or traditions—can lose their meaning. We risk focusing on the symbol itself rather than the powerful story behind it. By remembering our rivers, we give depth and significance to the markers of our past, helping others see beyond the surface to the transformative experiences they represent.

We Must Not Forget the Source of Our Salvation

In retelling the story of crossing the Jordan, Joshua emphasized that it was the Lord who dried up the waters. Too often, we may celebrate our victories without acknowledging the divine intervention that made them possible. Remembering our rivers means recognizing that our strength comes from a higher source, and that the same God who parted waters for our ancestors is still working in our lives today.

Our Struggles Share Similarities

Every generation faces its own set of challenges, its own rivers to cross. While the specifics may differ, the core experiences of fear, faith, and triumph remain constant. By remembering the rivers of the past, we can draw strength and wisdom for our present struggles. We realize that we're part of a larger story of overcoming, and that gives us courage to face our own obstacles.

It Reminds Us of God's Power in Our Present Reality

The story of the Jordan crossing wasn't just about what God had done; it was also a promise of what He would continue to do. When we remember our rivers, we're not just dwelling on the past—we're building faith for the future. We're reminding ourselves that the God who made a way before will make a way again.

As we reflect on these reasons, it's important to consider: What are the rivers in your life right now? What seemingly insurmountable obstacles are you facing? Perhaps it's financial hardship, health challenges, relationship struggles, or societal injustices. Whatever your river may be, take heart in knowing that you're not alone in facing it.

Consider the rivers that have been crossed before you. Think about the civil rights movement, where brave individuals faced violence and oppression to secure freedoms we often take for granted today. Remember the generations who endured slavery, Jim Crow laws, and systemic discrimination, yet still pressed forward with hope and determination. These are not just historical facts; they are testaments to the resilience of the human spirit and the faithfulness of God.

But remembering isn't just about looking back—it's about moving forward with renewed purpose and faith. Here are some practical ways to remember your rivers and draw strength from them:

Engage with your elders: Take time to listen to the stories of those who came before you. Ask about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

Document your own journey: Keep a journal of the rivers you're crossing. Write down your fears, your prayers, and the ways you see God working in your life.

Create your own memorials: Find tangible ways to mark significant moments of triumph in your life. This could be as simple as a special piece of jewelry or as elaborate as a family tradition.

Share your story: Don't keep your experiences to yourself. By sharing how you've crossed your rivers, you can inspire and encourage others facing similar challenges.

Study history: Dive deep into the history of your community, your culture, and your faith. Understanding the broader context of your journey can provide invaluable perspective.

As we remember our rivers, we're not just recalling past events—we're rekindling our faith, strengthening our resolve, and preparing ourselves for the rivers yet to come. We're reminding ourselves that no matter how turbulent the waters may be, we serve a God who specializes in the impossible.

So, the next time you face a seemingly uncrossable river, remember the words of that old spiritual: "Have you any rivers that seem uncrossable? Have you any mountains you can't tunnel through? God specializes in things thought impossible, and He will do what no other power can do."

Your river is an opportunity for God to show His power and faithfulness once again. Stand firm, remember the rivers of the past, and watch as God makes a way where there seems to be no way. For in remembering, we find the courage to keep moving forward, the faith to believe in miracles, and the assurance that we are part of a greater story—a story of triumph, perseverance, and unwavering hope.