by John M. Fuller

“Memories may be beautiful and yet, what’s too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget . . . .” Hold on, Barbara Streisand (from the song “The Way We Were”); not so fast. Forgetting may work in the “la la land of Hollywood” but not in the real world. For Christians, remembering the pain and suffering of Christ’s death is our reason for praise!

Remember Jesus Christ

As our church gathers on the Lord’s Day to observe the Lord’s Supper, we remember Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection as part of our worship. Jesus said, “Do this while remembering me.” The Lord’s Supper is a physical, constant reminder of our salvation through Jesus Christ. This act of remembrance announces his sacrifice to the world.

Memories of Christ are beautiful and give us a reason for praise. To be able to present ourselves as approved by God means remembering Christ’s life and purpose. This is vital for successful Christian living. Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example that we “should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). This is our focus.

Keep Reminding Them

Paul knew how important it was to remember. This gospel is so important that he was willing to suffer and die for it. Paul not only encouraged Timothy to “keep reminding” them of the life of Christ, he also provided application—a list of basic, practical behavioral reminders: the warning of destructive language (2 Timothy 2:14, 16-18), the blessing of positive presentation (v. 15), and the practice of what one preaches (v. 19).

Never forget Christ. Never forget his life and example. Never forget his sacrifice that gave us salvation. Never forget that he is coming again. Think about it all the time. Paul says it succinctly in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” In other words, remember Jesus. He is the reason for our praise!

John M. Fuller is the preaching minister of Silver Star Christian Church in Orlando, FL. He has served as the Treasurer of the National Missionary Convention for the last nine years. He and his wife, Miriam, have two sons, Jedidiah and Josiah, who are in full-time ministry.