Robert: “I never forget anything”

Elizabeth: “Well, that’s a gift”

Robert: “No. It isn’t.”

That interaction was between Robert Langdon and Elizabeth Sinskey in the movie, Inferno. It spoke to me as just a day or two before, another show I was watching, Transplant, brought up the topic of memory as well. The show is set in an emergency room and a young lady couldn’t remember things about her past. The main character, Bashir, struggles with remembering too much of his personal past trauma. It was then pointed out to him that memory was a luxury, which was something he had never considered.

Both characters had moments that they would rather forget. I can understand that. There are difficult and painful moments I would love to cut out of my memory bank. I can let my mind wander to how things may have been different in my life if certain things didn’t happen. But then I wouldn’t be who I have become without those experiences.

Memory can be a gift, even a luxury, if it compels you to become better. Memories of failures and mistakes help you learn and grow. Most importantly, the memories of how God was with you in all your moments are what you can draw out of that memory bank when needed. There are many references in the Bible to remember what God did, like in the exodus. Jesus also reminded us at the last supper: “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:20). Even though none of us living today were at that last supper, Jesus gave His life for us too. Wow. Let us never forget that part. During Lent, it can be tempting to rush past this time to the celebration of Easter. But I know it gives me comfort knowing that Jesus knew what suffering He was going to face and He chose to do it anyway. Thank Jesus today for His sacrifice and it’s up to us to keep that memory going.