As my denomination does not have any particular uniform or official garb, this was a nice gift that my parents thought I could wear when I am carrying out my formal duties.

Genesis 28:1-22

Reference:  v.18  Early the next morning Jacob took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  When I was ordained as a minister my parents gave me a celebration gift.  It was a small gold cross that i could hang on a necklace.  As my denomination does not have any particular uniform or official garb, this was a nice gift that my parents thought I could wear when I am carrying out my formal duties.  A few years down the track I find myself putting on my gold cross necklace every single day.  It reminds me of many things: my parents, my ordination, my commitment to ministry but most of all that every day I am carrying out 'formal duties' for God.  I do not hang up my cross on particular days but I am always being a representative for Christ in my home, in my work place and in my local shopping centre.

Application:  Jacob had a God experience at Bethel and so he set up a pillar with his stone-pillow on top as a reminder of God's promise to him and his promise back to God.  While we must never make objects the idol we worship, it is often helpful for us to have visual reminders of our commitment to God and God's commitment to us.  It could be a bookmark in your Bible, a small group outline on your fridge, or a special object on your bedside table.  And then each and every day you can be reminded of the great love God has for you and be prompted to live for God in the day ahead.

Prayer:  Lord, You never forget us.  You are with us always.  May we not forget to look to You each and every day.  Amen.

Do you have a special object that reminds you of your commitment to God and his love for you?