I’ve always been a reflective person, but right now, I seem to be in a reflective season.  Granted, the older you get, I think the more reflective you get.  And granted, we are coming out of a very sober and somber time in the world.  Yet, reflection is a connection to the past, a consideration of the present, and provides wisdom for all who will listen. 

The Bible says, Remember the days of old; consider (reflect on) the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you…” Deuteronomy 3:27

In the past 6 months, two people who were in my life decades ago passed away.  One, my best friend in college, the other, my cousin.  Although we had not spoken to each other in 30-50 years, their passing caused a deep sense of reflection that has cut into me.  Memories kept flooding my soul, and I have reflected on what those two people meant to me in my life.  

Interesting that my “word for the year” is remember.  Specifically “remember what God has done.”  Taken from one of my favorite Psalms, 143, in which David, is experiencing one of the most heart-wrenching experiences and is crying out to God in the most desperate way.  

First, to remember is a connection to the past.  We don’t (and shouldn’t} live in the past, but remembering where we’ve come from, and what God has done in our lives provides us with rich lessons. 

Second, we can (and should) use those experiences in consideration of what’s going on in the present.  Our past can be an advisor to us, it is our counselor of sorts.  

And remembering and reflecting can (and should) be done in connection to those who have been around the block a few more times than we have.  It comes from interacting and seeking out those who are older.  There are gifts of wisdom that come from experience the older can pass on to the younger.  

To the older I say, remember, yes, consider and think about all that has happened in your life.  If you don’t have a journal, maybe even go through the effort of writing things down now, looking back.  Reflect on how God has worked in the events of your life, big and small.

To the younger, ask.  Go to someone older—connect with them, ask them to be your mentor, advisor, and helper as you weaver through the seasons of life.  And by all means, go to your parents and grandparents.  Within them lie wisdom that can help you in so many ways. Above all, don’t forget to remember.