I was listening to a beautiful modern rendition of a classic song. Although I was unfamiliar with the tune, I knew it was a popular tune during World War II. Many soldiers and their loved ones listened to this in hopeful expectation that they would be safely reunited. As I perused the online comments associated with the music video, many of an older generation posted their comments about how this song sustained them and their parents during difficult periods. I also came upon this insightful anonymous observation that elegantly summarized the feelings of myself and others.
“Weird how songs can make you feel nostalgic for memories you never had.”
Nostalgia evokes a longing for the past that is usually associated with fond memories. I was not yet born when this song was popular but I could definitely relate to the intense emotions and memories that were shared. We read in the Bible about the Garden of Eden. It was paradise that God created for the first couple, Adam and Eve. It was intended to be their eternal home with continual fellowship with God. Unfortunately, paradise was marred when both sinned, disobeying God, and banished from the Garden. Although none of us have ever lived there, we all long for this Paradise. Why?
Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT)
It is not a coincidence that we have a nostalgia for a memory we have never had. God created all of us with a God-shaped hole within our hearts, placing eternity in our hearts. Praise God for His grace and mercy to all who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior!
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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