"Ebenezer" is an intriguing word, conjuring images of Dickens' Ebenezer Scrooge or the biblical "stone of help." When you hear the word "Ebenezer," what comes to mind? In today's exploration, we dive into whether we embody the characteristics of a Scrooge or a stone of help in our lives.

The Vision of Ebenezer

I'm Curtis Biswell, your host, aiming to cultivate a thriving community of worshippers enriched in character, competence, and cognitive health. Today, let's consider two types of Ebenezer: Scrooge, a symbol of selfishness and greed, and the biblical stone, a symbol of help and remembrance.

A Journey of Stones

Reflecting on my 19-year marriage, my wife Valerie orchestrated a memorable "Rock Journey" for our 13th anniversary. She placed decorated rocks at significant locations in our life together, each representing pivotal moments and values.

1. Kansas Christian College (KCC): This rock symbolized our calling to ministry, where our journey together began.

2. A Local Park: Representing our growing infatuation and deepening relationship.

3. A Special Intersection: Marking our first kiss and the first "I love you."

4. Rosale Church: The place where we started our ministry work and felt anointed by God.

5. Our First Apartment: Symbolizing the beginning of our life together as a married couple.

6. My Old Job at Sinco: This rock, marked "obedience," reminded me of the lessons learned while waiting for God’s timing in my call to full-time ministry.

7. Our Current Home: A testament to God's provision, found miraculously when we needed it most.

8. New City Church: Signifying the fulfillment of our dream to be involved in full-time ministry.

Each rock served as a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness and guidance, much like the biblical Ebenezer.

The Biblical Ebenezer

In 1 Samuel 7:7-12, Samuel sets up a stone named Ebenezer after God helped Israel defeat the Philistines, symbolizing "Thus far the Lord has helped us." This stone served as a remembrance of God's assistance and faithfulness, urging us to reflect on our "stones of help" in our lives.

Reflection and Takeaway

As we ponder the concept of Ebenezer, consider the moments in your life where you've seen God’s hand. Are you holding onto a Scrooge-like attitude, or are you recognizing and raising your stones of help? Reflect on where the Lord has guided you and join me next week as we further explore raising Ebenezer—whether they are Scrooge or stone.

Remember, God's timing and methods are always perfect, even when they don’t align with our expectations. Reflect on your ebenezers this week and celebrate the divine help you've received.