Remembering

It’s that time of year again… “Remember, remember the 5th of November” – a time when we light bonfires to remember and celebrate the foiling of the infamous ‘Gunpowder plot’ to blow up King James I and his government.  On the very night Guy Fawkes’ plot was thwarted in 1605, bonfires were lit to celebrate the safety of the King.  It became an act of thankfulness for the king and his safety.  Today, we still light bonfires to remember this event.

How often however do we stop and remember events and people who have been significant in our lives?  Life is so busy we barely have time to reflect on the events of the last 24 hours let alone think about important people and moments throughout our lives.  That’s the point, we rarely do.

There are countless individuals in history who have led significant lives and had a huge impact on the world we live in today. How often do we stop and think about them?

If someone actually died so you could have a better life wouldn’t you stop and remember them?  I’m guessing you would.

Well, this is exactly what Jesus did.  Two thousand years ago Jesus suffered and died as an act of love for us. He died and was then raised to life again so we can have a hope of a better future; eternal life if we choose to believe in him.  Surely this is worth remembering?

While we’re finding time to celebrate a foiled plot from 1605, let’s also take time out to remember other momentous events in our individual and collective lives, not least of course this incredible act of love from Jesus who gave literally everything, including a brighter hope for our future. Take a moment and remember today.

Useful Bible Passage: Romans 6 v23