History Of Obedience

History of Obedience

Remember the days of long ago; think about the generations past. Ask your father, and he will inform you. Inquire of your elders, and they will tell you.

Deuteronomy 32:7

One true story that every Amish child is bound to know is about Dirk Willems, a young man on the run from the authorities after escaping from prison, where he was incarcerated for his Anabaptist faith. According to the story,

He safely slid across the river

And turned around to see

The leader plunge down through the ice

Now was his chance to flee!

But wait! What words did Jesus give

About our enemy?

Show love and pray they’ll turn to God

For all eternity!

The story continues with Dirk’s turning back and rescuing his pursuer. The official wished to set Dirk free, but the others refused because the Anabaptists went against the established church and the government. Dirk Willems was again imprisoned and later tortured and burned. It’s a story that’s repeated to remind the Amish that God asks each of us to remain strong to the end: “Remember your history, your long and rich history. I am GOD, the only God you’ve had or ever will have—incomparable, irreplaceable—from the very beginning telling you what the ending will be, all along letting you in on what is going to happen, assuring you, ‘I’m in this for the long haul, I’ll do exactly what I set out to do’” (Isaiah 46:9-10, The Message).

History such as this story is evidence that heroes aren’t necessarily those who achieve great victories but those who follow God in obedience, even if it means all in this life is lost. A relationship with God doesn’t guarantee a life filled with happiness and blessings, but the blessings we will receive in eternity will be greater than any hardship we face in this life.

Dear heavenly Father, I pray that You will give me strength and courage for whatever I face. May my life and obedience always be a testimony to You.