In the great preamble of Ecclesiastes, Solomon laments how quickly we forget significant events which have only recently occurred when he declares,

“There is no remembrance of former things, nor will there be any remembrance of later things yet to be, among those who come after.” Ecclesiastes 1:11.

As one theologian remarked, commenting on this verse, “the only thing we learn from history is that we do not learn from history.”

It seems hard to imagine that only a few months ago, we participated in a mass migration to the “path of totality” to witness a total eclipse of the sun.   So much of the business of living has happened since then, that this absolutely stunning witness to the glory of our God, his faithfulness and reliability, has quickly given way to the uncertainty of new crises du jour.   Indeed we learn from history that we do not learn from history.

Because of advancements in astronomy and mathematics over the millennia of human history, the ability to predict with certainty the exact trajectory, time and duration of something as remarkable as a solar eclipse is a testimony to the power, wisdom and faithfulness of God to create certainties in the midst of what appears to be a very uncertain world.

For the ancient world, however, the unexpectedness of a solar eclipse brought terror.  It seemed to confirm the latent fear of darkened pagan hearts and minds that their gods were capricious and angry – unpredictable and bent on judgment and destruction.   Yet we read of the God of the Bible that,

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.  James 1:17

The word translated shadow is an ancient word which means “eclipse.”   The Lord is a God who is constant and kind.   He never changes.  He is as good as His Word.  Consider what the scripture says about God’s promises.

Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass. Joshua 21:45

For all the promises of God find their Yes in [Christ Jesus]. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory. 2 Corinthians 1:20

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9. 

Join us for worship at Pottsville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church  this Lord’s Day, January 14, as we examine the story of Isaac’s birth in Genesis 21 and consider the trustworthiness of a God who makes and keeps promises.  For directions click here. We look forward to seeing you.