What actions can we take to remember our past as instructed here? Setting the Scene Deuteronomy 24 contains a series of laws that protect the weak—laws about divorce, pledges, fair wages, and gleaning. They close with a forceful reminder: “Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt. Therefore I am commanding you to do this.” (Deuteronomy 24:22) Israel’s own story of bondage and redemption becomes the motive for mercy toward others. That same pattern guides us today. Key Reasons Scripture Gives for Remembering • God’s past deliverance keeps our hearts humble (Deuteronomy 8:2–3). • Remembering guards us from pride and forgetfulness (Deuteronomy 8:11–14). • Memory fuels gratitude and worship (Psalm 103:2). • Past mercies instruct future obedience (Titus 3:3–8). Practical Actions for Today 1. Celebrate Redemption Regularly • The Passover feast fixed Israel’s rescue in their calendar (Exodus 12:24–27). • We keep the Lord’s Table central, “proclaiming the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). 2. Tell the Story to the Next Generation • “We will not hide them from their children” (Psalm 78:4). • Share personal testimonies and family histories of God’s faithfulness. 3. Build Tangible Memorials • Joshua set up twelve stones from the Jordan “so that this may be a sign among you” (Joshua 4:6–7). • Place Scripture plaques in the home, keep a journal of answered prayer, mark anniversaries of salvation or deliverance. 4. Practice Compassionate Generosity • Leave the “edges of the field” for the vulnerable—modern parallels include budgeting a set percentage for benevolence, supporting food banks, or giving directly to widows and orphans (James 1:27). • Treat employees and coworkers justly and kindly, remembering Israel’s slavery (Colossians 4:1). 5. Show Hospitality to Strangers • “You yourselves were foreigners in Egypt” (Leviticus 19:34). • Open your home, share meals, welcome refugees and newcomers to church and community. 6. Keep a Rhythm of Rest and Reflection • The Sabbath reminded Israel of slavery and release (Deuteronomy 5:15). • Schedule weekly moments to recount God’s mercies; unplug, reflect, and worship. Connecting Scriptures • Exodus 13:3 – “Remember this day in which you came out of Egypt.” • Deuteronomy 15:15 – “Remember that you were slaves…therefore I command you this thing today.” • Ephesians 2:11–13 – Gentile believers are told, “Remember that formerly you who are Gentiles…were without hope…But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near.” • 1 Peter 2:9–10 – “Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people.” Taking the Next Step of Obedience Let the memory of slavery and rescue shape daily choices. When we recall what God has done—delivering us from sin’s bondage—our hands open in generosity, our homes in hospitality, and our lips in continual praise. |
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