Memories for the Future
“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”
Proverbs 23:17-18
I love a good memory, especially as I celebrate another birthday tomorrow. It seems the older I get, the more I enjoy reflecting on sweet moments from my past. My most endearing memories, though, are ones that inspire hope. Many of them are of those active days before my accident. I recall the sound of my nails tapping the cool, ivory keys of the piano. I can still “feel” my fingers digging under an orange skin and peeling it. Best of all, I recall my hands tightening the reins on my horse, as we would canter toward a jump in the show ring.
For some, those memories might stir up sad feelings. So why do memories like these inspire hope for me? Simply put, these reflections remind me that one day I’ll have new hands. My fingers will work and feel, touch and pluck, pick and scrub and dig and caress. My hands will embrace loved ones. I so look forward to reaching my new glorified hand out to Ken’s and giving it a squeeze, just to see what it feels like!
My best memories give shape to a hopeful future of what we’ll have in heaven. Better yet, these special recollections are only hints and whispers of even more wonderful things to come. The best parts of life now merely foreshadow their awesome reality in heaven. Oh, what a glorious hope we have through Jesus Christ! Our best memories will one day blossom into bigger, more joyous realities than we ever dreamed possible. It’s guaranteed. It’s assured. All because it’s Christian hope, not wishful thinking.
No matter what you’ve lost in this life, whether a loved one, your health, or your ability to think clearly, whatever memories you have of “before,” let them inspire hope for you.
Lord, thank you for the tastes of heaven you give us in the joys and pleasures of earth. Let every grief I endure blossom into a richer hope of what you are preparing for me in heaven. Guide me in remembering that my sweetest memories can give shape to a future bright with hope and assurance.
Celebrate Joni’s Birthday!
Joni Eareckson Tada is turning 74! Every donation will bring Joni joy on her birthday and help fulfill the Joni and Friends vision of creating a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ.
