"do you remember..."

Memory is important.  Gathering together and remembering together are vital ingredients in loving relationships  From family reunions to funeral receptions we often hear those words spoken:  "Do you remember..."

The other day I read an article about the recently built 9/11 museum at Ground Zero.  Central to the purpose of this museum is remembrance.  But, in recounting her journey through the museum, the author laments the complete lack of an underlying hope or even message.  Simple documentation displayed with grandiose style takes the place of a message and hope.. The author wonders if we have lost our ability to remember.

The Advent season is about remembrance.  Christians, during this season, are not just recounting once again that old story from the past  We are not just reading an ancient document because of a yearly tradition.  Rather, as we read prophetic Advent passages, we hear the deep hope of God's people as they await his coming - a hope which profoundly resounds in us.  We sing songs of such significance and beauty that they fit no other season.  We decorate the church, not with grandiosity of glamour - for Jesus was born in a manger - but for that special time, Christmas Eve, when we gather together to remember in joyful song, in prayer and in hearing again - and anew - the very Word of God, words of hope.

"I will remember the deeds of the LORD;  yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago"  (Psalm 77:11)