Build altars in the places where I remind you who I am, and I will come and bless you there. Exodus 20:24 NLT (1996)
What a beautiful aim – to build an altar "where I remind you who I am." The English Standard Version translates it, "In every place where I cause my name to be remembered." If we are consciously looking for them as we go through our days, there are so many places to build an altar of remembrance of who our God is and offer up sacrifices of thanksgiving and praise.
Lying in bed I remember the years and years as a child that I cried myself to sleep, and no parent came to comfort me. But you, my Father, were always there. You are the faithful God. All my life you have been faithful. And I will build an altar here as I go to sleep and when I wake. You are the God who comforts the downcast1, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort2.
On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 63:6-7
When I'm sitting at the table, able to buy and eat almost anything a want, I remember the days when I was alone and so very hungry. Many days my supper was a tiny, warmed up can of tomato juice flavored with marigold leaves. I was so hungry I stole food (God forgive me!). But my God kept me alive and rescued me. You are Jehovah-Jireh, the God who provides.
Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits ... who satisfies your desires with good things ... Psalm 103:2, 5
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (ESV)
When I'm standing in the checkout line, and I remember the days later, when I had the money, but I couldn't make myself go through the line. The days of panic attacks when I left my full cart in the store and went home because I couldn't face the cashier. I will build an altar here as I wait in line this day and offer up a sacrifice of praise. That has been a long time ago now. You are the God who heals me.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases ... Psalm 103:2-3 (ESV)
Sitting in a church pew I remember the days, nights, feeling – a presence – yearning for the unknown desirer. Years of seeking, drawn by steadfast cords of love, in cathedrals and chapels and country meeting halls, until in the sanctuary of a moonlit night I heard you calling my name. And I will build an altar here and praise your name. You are the God who is jealous for me, who longs for me.
You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made. Job 14:15
Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. Isaiah 46:9
Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered ... Psalm 105:5
I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. Psalm 77:11
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. 2 Timothy 2:8
Do this in remembrance of me. Luke 22:19b
I will remember and build an altar to Your Name, Ha-Shem.
Image, royalty-free photo from Pickpik
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