Today, we embark on a unique devotional journey that takes us back in time to the era of Jesus Christ. Imagine discovering a time capsule from that era, a vessel that encapsulates the hopes, dreams, and wisdom of those who lived during Jesus’ earthly ministry. As we explore the contents of this hypothetical time capsule, we’ll uncover valuable insights that remind us of the enduring significance of our past, even though we do not dwell there.

Luke 10:23-24 (NIV) “Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, ‘Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.’”*

Picture opening the time capsule from Jesus’ time. What would we find? Perhaps a fragment of a simple clay pot used during the wedding at Cana, reminding us of the first miracle Jesus performed. Maybe a piece of parchment with fragments of Jesus’ parables, a tangible connection to his teachings that continue to guide us today. Within this capsule, we might find a piece of fabric touched by the hem of Jesus’ robe, symbolizing the healing power that flowed from him.

Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

The time capsule’s contents, though artifacts from the past, hold profound meaning for us today. They remind us that our faith is not an isolated journey but is built upon the foundation of those who came before us. Just as Jesus told his disciples that they were blessed to witness his ministry, we too are blessed to have inherited the legacy of their witness. We are part of a greater narrative, a continuation of the story that began with Christ’s earthly presence.

Scripture: Romans 15:4 (NIV) “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”*

As believers, we do not live in the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry, yet the past continues to shape our present and guide our future. The lessons, parables, and miracles recorded in the Gospels are not just historical events; they are living truths that continue to impact our lives. Just as the early disciples were called to fix their eyes on Jesus, we are called to do the same, drawing inspiration and guidance from the timeless truths found in God’s Word.

If I were to create a Christian time capsule today I think I would include pages from my favorite Bible, a cross necklace, my salvation story, my favorite modern day Christian song, a photo of my family with a note that they are all saved, a photo of me and Tim with a note on the back of how long we have been married and how important a Godly marriage is, a photo of several churches (inside and outside), a photo and story of a community evangelism event and a recording and written outline of Tim’s favorite sermon. What about you? What would you put in your Christian time capsule?

Thank God for the rich heritage of faith that we have inherited from those who lived during the time of Jesus. We need God’s help to recognize the significance of our past and to glean wisdom from the stories and teachings that have been passed down to us. May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, as we navigate the challenges of our own time. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Let us cherish the past and the profound wisdom it offers us. Just as the contents of a time capsule from Jesus’ time would speak to us today, so does the Gospel message and the legacy of faith. Let us embrace our connection to the past as we journey forward, fixing our eyes on Jesus and continuing the race marked out for us.