In America, we celebrate Memorial Day on the last Monday of May, and it is a reminder that there are some things that we must never forget. The tradition started before the Civil War to remember the ultimate sacrifice offered by men and women who served their country underarms. There is a price paid for us to enjoy the freedoms and liberties in this country.
Our text clearly shows that God wants us to have memorials to significant events in life. When the word memorial is used in scripture, it is more than just a moment of silence, but a word spoken to remember the sacrifice. The act of remembering gathers many benefits. It helps us not to repeat the mistakes of the past. It inspires us by the courage of others. Remember encourages us to act to do our part.
Moses had an encounter with God at the burning bush that would change the trajectory of his life and the lives of Israel. God tells Moses to tell Israel that He is the I AM during this encounter. That name is a memorial to all future generations that describes the nature of God. God is the provider, the protector, the comforter. He says I am provider; I am Protector; I am the comforter.
Our text mentions three different individuals: Abraham, Issac, and Jacob. These were three very different personalities. God is the God of all personalities, and he cares for everyone. Because he is the god of personalities, he knows we all worship in different ways. He can minister and deal with each individual in the specific way they need it.
God was committed to this memorial name. This name announces His commitment to every generation. His name reveals that He has no favorites. He is the god of the uninteresting Issac, the god of the double-dealing Jacob, and the God of the noble Abraham.
More than a name, it is a promise I am YOUR God.