Joshua 24 The Covenant Renewal at Shechem

Towards the end of his life, Joshua led the people to renew their covenant with God with the same fervor he led them into war to take possession of the land. God's relationship with his people is defined by covenant. But covenants can be forgotten, not by God, but by people. This is why covenant renewal is so important. Covenant renewal requires a reminder, a resolve, and a remembrance.

Joshua reminds Israel of all the benefits they had enjoyed at the hand of God. From the call of Abram to the liberation from Egypt and into the promised land, God had fought for Israel. And Israel better not forget! God has also done many great things in my life that I must never forget. How he brought me to himself through the preaching of the Gospel and how he forgave me, cleansed me, and empowered me to work in his kingdom. How he called me into ministry and gave me the opportunities that I enjoy today to serve him. How he was there to uphold me during my darkest hours. My God is a good God and I better not forget all his benefits. Covenant renewal requires a reminder.

Joshua then proceeds to challenge Israel letting them know what it means to serve the Lord. It means to forsake all other gods and wholeheartedly serve him. Joshua leads Israel with his own resolve: But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord! Israel needed to understand the commitment that it was making. It needed to understand the consequences of disobedience to make a meaningful resolve to serve the Lord. After a reminder of all God's benefits there is no better course of action, but to resolve to serve him. My God has been very good to me, why would I forsake him? I resolve to serve him!

Joshua leads the congregation in the establishment of a remembrance or memorial. A stone that heard everything that was spoken before the Lord was erected to be a remembrance of their covenant renewal with God. A remembrance is something visual that brings to mind something that has taken place. For me, my remembrance is my ministry credentials. Every year the District issues a new card that reminds me of my calling and my resolve to serve my God.

Father, I renew my covenant with you today. As I am reminded of the many things you have done for me, I resolve to serve you as I look at my credentials issued by the District. May I never lose my passion to serve you with all my heart every day of my life. Amen.