“When you see the Ark… you are to follow... Then you will know which way to go, for you have never been this way before. Joshua 3:3a,4

“It’s just a pile of stones.” I can imagine that this is what some thought as they walked along the Jordan River. “Why would someone pile up twelve stones like this? Look how smooth they are. They must be from the river. How did someone get stones from the middle of the river?” In Joshua, chapters 3 and 4, we find the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land. They had just completed a very long trek through the wilderness. Here we find them as they’re getting ready to embark on an incredible journey. Thus far in this journey they had been delivered from 400 years of slavery, endured harsh living conditions in the desert, enjoyed the abundance that only God can provide, witnessed the death of their greatest human leader, and watched as the unfaithful to God died while those who trusted in Him remained strong as if they had not aged a day.

If one were to look closely at the account, there are many things that could be said about the significance of the event in which the Israelites were about to participate. We could talk about the sheer mighty power of God as he held back the waters of the river while His people crossed over or the symbolism of following the Ark of the Covenant (the presence of God) and it leading the way to life. Perhaps, we could take hold of the assurance of God’s protection and guidance for those who are obedient to Him, or the power of creating a memory that stands as a legacy for those who come behind you. Each of these lessons (and more) are illustrated in this story and have value in our lives.

Eight years ago, I did something at the end of the school year for which I thought would have been one of those one time events. During the last chapel, I told the story of Joshua and the crossing of the Jordan. At the conclusion of the story, I produced a number of old red Fairview bricks, and invited each 8th grade student to take a brick and remember (like the Israelites when they looked upon the stones taken from the Jordan) what God had done for them. I also told the students that the brick would serve as a way to remember their time at Fairview. The 8th grade class at the time looked at me, and then graciously took a brick. I was left there thinking, “Well that went over like a lead balloon.”

Since that time, I have been delightfully surprised each year as 8th grade students come and ask me for a brick. Every year it’s the same. I always say to them, “Are you sure? Do you really want one?” They always look back at me with the mental remark of “duh!” of course I want one. I know of a few of those graduates who still have their bricks. They have them next to other trophies and awards that they have received over the years. Every day I’m thankful for the opportunities we have had to impact lives for God!

Thanks for reading.

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