January 2

Set up the roadmarks, establish the signposts. Keep the highway in mind, the road you have traveled. Return, O Virgin Israel, return to these cities of yours. — Jer 31:21 BSB

Looking back often gives encouragement for what lies ahead. If we’re walking on the path to Zion, we will have various markers along the way. A distinct calling, a remarkable deliverance, or a gracious experience of Christ; a promise applied here, an answered prayer there; a special blessing under the preaching of the Word; a gentle assurance of our share in the Lamb's blood; a breakthrough of divine light in times of deep darkness; a comforting sip of grace in seasons of sorrow and trial; or the calming of our inner and outer storms with “It is I, do not be afraid”—such waymarks are a blessing to set up as evidence that we are on the right road.

And even if many who truly fear God can’t point to such visible waymarks, they still have sure testimonies, even if not as outwardly satisfying. The fear of God in a tender conscience, the spirit of grace and prayer in their hearts, their love for God’s people, their affection for the truth in its purity and power, their earnest desires, budding hopes, and anxious fears; their honesty and simplicity that make them wary of being deceived or deluded; their separation from the world, humility, meekness, and quietness that often put to shame louder professions—these and similar marks identify many as children of God who may not yet feel fully assured of such a privilege and blessing.

But whether the waymarks are high or low, shining in the sunlight or dimly visible at dawn, the virgin of Israel is still commanded to “set them up” and also to “set her heart toward the highway, the way by which she came.”