Now the men had said to her, “This oath you made us swear will not be binding on us unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down

Joshua 2:17-18

Memories! They are troves of helpful treasure from our past. They provide excellent leads into the heart of wisdom for renewing of our minds in the word of God, if only a person considers them carefully without the pollution of bitterness. Memories have a way of clearing the cobwebs of life and revealing the answers to our ‘whys’ and the ‘hows’ of yesterday. By them, we can gain deep insights and take steps for a fresh start or redirected course. But if reviewed under the magnifying glass of regret, bitterness, and revenge, memories could destroy a life for good. 

Lent is a journey to the heart of Calvary, filled with memories of the Savior’s passion. The redeemed travel on it for strength and encouragement to help them on the upward journey into eternity. The memories of our Savior’s life and suffering come into the review scope to guide the Pilgrim’s way. 

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrew 12:2).

Now is the time for deep spiritual evaluation: How did we get here? How far have we traveled? Have we made progress? Are we growing into His likeness, not comparing ourselves to other people? What adjustments do we have to make? Are you aiming at finishing the race well at all?

Perhaps we can review our progress with Rahab today. Yes, you heard right. I mean Rahab, the strategically positioned lady of the night on the ancient city wall of Jericho. And if you feel uncomfortable with the comparison to her, maybe you have not come to terms with grace. For that is who you were, my friend, but for the crimson flow on Calvary, where Christ Jesus died for us.

Looking back, Rahab remembers the day it all changed for her. Not expecting any disruption in her routine, she had adorned herself in her best silky apparel, beautifully made up, and with carefully manicured nails. Nothing distinguished the two men from any other customers she had welcomed into her parlor for her ignominious trade. However, they were not after her body. They were about the business of the Most High God. She immediately sensed their uniqueness and identity. Because of their people, Jericho was on lockdown (Joshua 2:9; 6:1).

Rahab recalls her inner struggles before that meeting. Disgusted with her life, she wanted a way out of her trade. But who will give a prostitute another chance? How many times has she not she wept after a stinky customer left her consulting room? But who could rescue her? 

She was a prostitute, but not a fool. Rahab could recognize an opportunity of a lifetime come her way and the urgency of it. She quickly cut a deal with the men. “Our lives for your lives!” the men assured her (Joshua 2:14). A scarlet cord hung from her window became the symbol of their agreement. And her family came along too. Not bad for a woman labeled “every man’s helper.”

There is no disappointment in Christ. The men held the end of the bargain and rescued Rahab from destruction. More than that. She gained a place in the family line of the Messiah King (Matthew 1:5). And as she reminisces today, how glad is she! How amazing is grace to her, and sweet the sound of it! That is why she is forever thankful.

How about you? Do the memories of your sordid past inspire you to greater holiness and righteous living? Do you have anything in your life to let go so you can run the race well—any weight of sin that easily beset you to bring to the Lord was away? 

That is the essence of Lent. Renew yourself in Christ as you walk with Him to Calvary and beyond.