“Tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan from right where the priests stood and to carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight.” Joshua 4:3

Do you get this verse? Take twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan–the river that, during floodwater stage, “piled into a heap a great distance away” (Joshua 3:16) so the Israelites could cross on dry land.

“In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.” Joshua 4:6b,7

A memorial to remember one instance when the impossible was made possible. A physical reminder of God’s provision, care, love and power. A lasting display of God’s grandeur.

I can think of no better time than this week of turkey preparations to create my own pile of Jordan stones. My rocks might not be physical, but the impression they create on my heart can be just as lasting as the ones left next to that mighty river.

One of my stones comes from a period in which I was drowning in pain and despair. A tragic life-event left me confused, broken and despondent. The Jordan threatened to pull me under, until the one I love parted the waters and breathed hope into my soul. Another rock is the gem I wear on my left hand, a testament to the way God allowed me to once again trust and love. My children are part of my memorial, too, reminding me how two beautiful creations are teaching me to live more selflessly.

These are but a sampling of my stones and the amazing ways in which God has graciously cared for me. I’d love to hear what some of yours are.

Happy Thanksgiving!