Genesis 32:30
So Jacob named the place Peniel, for he said, “I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been preserved.”
This was an incredibly significant time and place in Jacob’s life. Some would say that this is when he was born again; his nature was changed from being a manipulator to one who works with God. This is a paraphrase of his old name to his new name- Jacob to Israel.
This event/place was so important, that He memorialized it by naming it Penuel, as is defined in the verse. There are things worth remembering. Our country has several holidays, so we’ll remember the occassions: veterans and memorial days, thanksgiving, etc. Jesus tells us to take communion to remember His sacrifice. We all have important occasions that we remember: birthdays and anniversaries. We also have other occurances that that should be remembered. Just as Jacob had this one, so we have significant times that should be remembered. Our spiritual birthday and times when God worked big changes are two examples.
Why is it important to remember? It demonstrates a grateful heart. We parents attempt to work the self absorbed tendencies out of our kids. For example, they want one thing and once they get it, there is no “thank you” or an obligatory one. They move on to the next thing they want. If we aren’t grateful, we are too self focused. Also, Jesus’ work was so huge and unselfish that it should never get old.
Lord, help us to be good “rememberers” when it comes to good things.