miracles

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -78

/ taethne

Forgetting to Remember

Dear friend in Christ,

As we open our Bibles to Psalm 78, we’re invited into a sweeping narrative of God’s unwavering love amidst human frailty. This psalm, penned by Asaph, isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a heartfelt reminder of how our Heavenly Father has pursued His people through generations, even when they’ve wandered far from Him. In a world that often feels chaotic and forgetful, let’s pause and let these words warm our hearts, drawing us closer to the One who never forgets us.

Imagine the scene: Asaph calls the people to “listen” (v. 1), urging them to pass down stories of God’s mighty deeds to the next generation. He recounts the miracles in Egypt—the plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, the manna from heaven, and water from the rock (vv. 12-16). These weren’t distant legends; they were vivid proofs of God’s provision and power. Yet, time and again, the Israelites “forgot what he had done” (v. 11), turning to grumbling, idolatry, and rebellion. Their hearts grew stubborn, testing God’s patience (vv. 17-31).

Doesn’t this mirror our own journeys? How often do we, like Israel, experience God’s deliverance—perhaps through answered prayers, healed relationships, or unexpected grace—only to let doubt creep in during the next trial? Psalm 78 gently convicts us, but it doesn’t leave us in shame. Instead, it highlights God’s compassionate response: “Yet he, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them” (v. 38). Even in judgment, God’s mercy shines through, leading to restoration. The psalm culminates in His choice of David as shepherd-king (vv. 70-72), a foreshadowing of the ultimate Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who would lead us with integrity and skill.

Beloved, this psalm whispers a warm invitation to remember. In your quiet moments today, reflect on your own “Red Sea” experiences—times when God parted impossible waters for you. Let gratitude replace forgetfulness. As Christians, we see in Psalm 78 a prelude to the Gospel: just as God remained faithful to faithless Israel, He sent His Son to redeem us once and for all. Through Jesus, our sins are atoned, and we’re called to live as a people who tell of His wonders (1 Peter 2:9).

Let this truth kindle hope in your soul. No matter how many times we’ve strayed, God’s love pursues us relentlessly. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the stories in Psalm 78 that reveal Your faithful heart. Forgive us for the times we’ve forgotten Your goodness. Help us to remember and recount Your deeds, passing them on to others. Draw us nearer to Jesus, our Good Shepherd, and fill us with Your compassion for a wandering world. In His name we pray, Amen.

May this reflection bless your day and strengthen your walk with the Lord. Keep pressing on—He is with you!

Hanukkah Lessons

/ taethne

During this season of celebration named Hanukkah, there are many lessons we can learn. The Festival of Lights, while a holiday pretty much exclusively celebrated by Jews, should be held in high esteem by Christians as well. (Also by Muslims if they were honest but that is a different thought for another time). The miracle of God extending the oil so that the menorah remained lit until more oil could be made ready for use, was a great miracle indeed. It showed that God was with His children and pleased with them and their zeal for His Holy Name. That was only one of the miracles God performed, though. The entire Maccabean rebellion should have been crushed by the overwhelming forces arrayed against them. God’s granting victory to them is reminiscent of the victories during the time of the Judges. Jesus observed the festival (John 10:22-23) as did His disciples. What could possibly be wrong with a festival honoring God’s provision and care?
We are reminded during this time that God cares for His people. He provides for His people. He protects His people. He remembers His people. He helps His people. It would be a good idea for everyone to read 1 and 2 Maccabees and learn of God’s care for His people during the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments.
It is also a good time to speak with our Jewish friends. To celebrate with them the miracles of God. To use this time as a bridge to communicating with them how Jesus is the Light of the World. That the God of Lights, who delights in giving His children good gifts, gave one in the form of His Son.
Wish them a Happy Hanukkah. Teach the meaning of the holiday to your children. Remind yourself that candles are not lit to shine in the home. They are meant to shine out, to tell others of the miracles of God. Let that be a lesson to take home – that the best way to honor God is to tell others about His greatness.