Remembrance

In the biblical context, remembrance is a profound theme that underscores the importance of recalling God's past actions, promises, and commandments. It serves as a spiritual discipline that reinforces faith and obedience among believers. The act of remembrance is not merely a mental exercise but a call to live in accordance with God's will, as demonstrated through His historical interventions and covenants.

The Old Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of remembrance. In Deuteronomy 6:12, Moses warns the Israelites, "Be careful not to forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery." This command highlights the necessity of remembering God's deliverance as a foundation for faithfulness. The Passover, as instituted in Exodus 12:14, serves as a perpetual memorial of God's deliverance: "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD."

The Psalms often reflect on remembrance as a source of hope and encouragement. Psalm 77:11-12 states, "I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds." Here, remembrance is portrayed as a means to bolster trust in God's continued faithfulness.

In the New Testament, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as an act of remembrance. In Luke 22:19, He instructs His disciples, "Do this in remembrance of Me." This sacrament serves as a continual reminder of Christ's sacrificial death and the new covenant established through His blood.

Anticipation

Anticipation in the biblical narrative is closely linked to the promises of God and the future fulfillment of His divine plan. It is characterized by a forward-looking faith that eagerly awaits the realization of God's promises, particularly concerning the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom.

The Old Testament prophets often spoke of a future hope, anticipating the coming of a Savior. Isaiah 9:6-7 prophesies the birth of a child who will establish an everlasting kingdom: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders." This anticipation of the Messiah fueled the hope of Israel throughout the centuries.

In the New Testament, anticipation is vividly expressed in the expectation of Christ's second coming. Jesus Himself speaks of His return in Matthew 24:30-31, saying, "They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." This promise of His return is a central tenet of Christian hope, encouraging believers to live in readiness and holiness.

The Apostle Paul frequently writes about anticipation in his epistles. In Romans 8:23-25, he describes the eager expectation of believers for the redemption of their bodies: "We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." This anticipation is rooted in the assurance of God's promises and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

The Book of Revelation culminates the theme of anticipation with the vision of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1-4 paints a picture of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises, where "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain."

In summary, remembrance and anticipation are intertwined themes that call believers to reflect on God's past faithfulness while eagerly awaiting the fulfillment of His future promises. These concepts encourage a life of faith, obedience, and hope, grounded in the assurance of God's unchanging nature and His eternal plan for redemption.