What does it mean to remember? What is the point? As Remembrance Day draws near, we use the time to tell the stories to acknowledge the sacrifices many men and women made to ensure the freedom of this great country. In other cases, we remember the death of our loved ones—the lives that they lived, the memories that we celebrate. There is a sense of reflection; yet, as the generations pass, many key emotions are tied to these events, and people are lost, and all that is left are the stories.
These stories are essential. They tell of a time or event that others may not know. They are a reminder of greatness, strength, mistakes, and warnings.
For followers of Jesus, scripture reminds us that the retelling and remembering of the events of God is to be done continually. This reminds the generations to come of God’s blessings. The stories highlight how He has shown up amidst the darkness and turmoil. He is a steady rock who follows through on His promises. These stories remind the next generation that God is not dead, yet alive and in action. Within Jewish culture, a large variety of festivals and events serve as an opportunity to pass down the happenings of God. For those outside of the Jewish traditions, these celebrations have no relevance; instead, we must rely on other means to remember the good works of God.
The church uses sacraments and holidays such as baptism, communion, Easter, and Christmas to remind us of God’s goodness, His love, and the sacrifice of Jesus, but what about all the other days? It’s easy to say that it is someone else’s job—the parents, the pastor, the small group leader—but they are only humans with limited experience. Not one person in the church is exempt from sharing God’s goodness and the way that he shows up faithfully time after time.
Despite the messiness of the human condition, we need to share our stories. They are a reminder of when God showed up. Piled together, our stories create alters, reminding us that God is good. Even when it’s dark, even when we feel alone and isolated, a God is there. The lies of the enemy remind us of our failures and, as a result, how unlikable or unlovable we are; they are simply lies. Most importantly, they tell of the miracles and the answered prayers and become the light in an otherwise dark world.
The people of Parliament Community Church need to hear these stories to remind us that God is good and demonstrate that he is still active in our modern world. Our youth need to know that their doubts and worries are simply that. They do not negate the power of Jesus; they don’t remove them from His presence. They need to know that it’s okay to ask questions and, more importantly, what it looks like for faith to be lived out.
The City of Regina needs to know Jesus. They, too, need to hear of his workings in our lives, how he saved us, and how he still regularly stands behind his promise never to leave us, to carry our burdens, to be our rock, and how he declares our identity as children of God. They need our stories as evidence.
These stories are not just for the unbelievers or those with doubts. They are for all. We live in a private world where we hesitate to share these stories, but if there is one thing I have learned, it is that our stories are meant to be shared, not to brag, but to encourage. So, as the opportunity presents itself, I encourage you to share your story of God’s work in your life. You never know how much the other person may need to hear it.
Kristen Cowman is the Children & Families Director at Parliament Community Church in Regina, SK, Which is located near Harbour Landing. As a church, we offer programs for all ages, from children to youth, young adults to Seniors who are part of our Heritage groups. We are also diverse in cultural backgrounds but share a desire to grow as disciples of Christ together.
