I keep reminders because I forget things. I depend on my to-do list, keeping it updated on my phone, syncing it with my computer, and knocking off items completed. I sit stuff I want to take somewhere right where I’ll trip over it. I always keep my keys in the pocket of my coat when I leave the house, so that I don’t lose my keys and I also don’t forget my coat. As you can see, absent-mindedness is part of my constitution.
The Lord instructed the people of Israel to attach tassels to the corners of their garments to look at and remember all the commandments of the Lord, to do them, not to follow after your own heart and your own eyes, which you are inclined to whore after. So you shall remember and do all my commandments, and be holy to your God.
God wanted his people to turn away from base desires. Like us, their appetites led them to do anything in order to get some particular thing. Hearts and eyes lead us astray, unless our hearts and eyes focus on the Lord.
Years later the Apostle Paul encouraged his flock to set your minds on the things above, not on things that are on the earth.
I’m reliant on reminders to move my eyes above my station. While I don’t attach tassels to my garments, I do keep prompts close at hand. The Bible I spend time in each morning sits in a place I see it when I get up. My calendar reserves a slot for reading and reflection. I hang meaningful pictures on my wall. All to help me remember to set my mind on things above.
I encourage you to do the same. Tie a string around your finger or set an alarm. Stick post-it notes on your bathroom mirror. Attach spiritual tassels to your life and develop a rich relationship with our amazing God.
Numbers 15:37-40; Colossians 3:2
Photo by Jannet Serhan