Judges 2:10b-12a “. . . another generation arose after them who did not know the Lord nor the work which He had done for Israel. Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served the Baals; and they forsook the Lord God. . .”
My family admits to being dressing-snobs. Just what is that? A dressing-snob is a person who turns their nose up on all Thanksgiving dressing or stuffing apart from their family’s own, unique recipe. It’s hereditary, so I take no shame in it. I am a third generation dressing snob who raised a fourth generation of snobs. And this past week at our Thanksgiving table, I observed a fifth generation emerging.
It is believed our Mama Watts crafted our recipe, but possibly she received it from her ancestors. Because we hold this recipe dear, if the generation to follow is to enjoy Mama Watts’ dressing, the intricate process of adding just the right amount of sage and balancing the ratio of cornbread to white bread must be handed down. Otherwise, those coming after will be destined to “take-out” stuffing.
Today’s theme verse speaks also to the importance of passing on to the next generation, yet it references something much more precious than a recipe. Throughout the life of Joshua, God’s loud voice and strong arm had been ever present. Following Joshua’s death, a new generation emerged who knew not God, nor His mighty works, nor His loving protection. Have you ever considered just what Israel had never shared with the younger generation?
They did not share the story of creation, so they knew nothing of God’s power, love, and forethought.
They were never told of Noah, so they did not understand the importance of faithfulness to God.
They had not heard of the Tower of Babel, so there was no awareness that God detests prideful hearts.
They never knew of Moses nor their bondage in Egypt. They were never told of the ten plagues nor the parting of the Red Sea, so they knew nothing of God’s love and promise of mighty protection.
They spoke nothing of Joseph’s unwavering faith in God, nor the blessing of his generous forgiveness.
They had no knowledge of Rahab who bore evidence of God’s desire to redeem broken lives.
Sadly, scripture records, “They did not know the Lord nor the work which He had done for Israel. . .They forsook the Lord God.”
If we are convicted beyond a doubt that God is holy, sovereign, and loving, we cannot help but share Him. If we fail to teach the next generation, we will find history repeating itself and there will come after us a generation who knows not our Lord (nor how to make Mama Watts’ dressing).
Father God, may our faith run deep and may we share you through all the moments of our life.
Blessings,
Rita Cochrane