I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.
2 Timothy 4:7 (New Living Translation)
Living deep within the heart of every person is a passion and desire to live a life that truly matters. I believe we want to make a contribution for Christ and make a difference in the lives of others. We want to live in such a way that the world, the people with whom we come in contact, are better because we lived well and finished well.
I recall standing in front of an open window “praying” (although I didn’t know it at the time), speaking out loud into the air, admitting this deep desire. The “emptiness of my soul” was disturbing and so counter what one would expect from a thriving up and coming young lady in her 20’s. However, I awakened each Sunday sluggish in body and spirit; “just barely making it” versus in a fundamental nature of restoration and renewal.
How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog – it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.
James 4:14 (New Living Translation)
For years, as a single, unmarried, childless female, I did not believe it necessary to work toward leaving a legacy. However, following a recommitted relationship with Jesus Christ, I was reminded of James 4:14. James says that life is short – it’s like a vapor that appears and is gone. And because it is short, we are compelled to make the most of it.
For centuries, there have been ordinary people whom God has selected to live lives of conviction with resulting and enduring legacies, and they have changed the world. I have often imagined what their one word or phrase that thrusted their mission and defined their legacy.
For Martin Luther, it may have been Reform.
For the Apostle Paul, it may have Grace.
For Mother Theresa, it was unquestionably Compassion.
King Solomon’s word would be Wisdom.
And for Jesus, His word, His legacy is Love.
Would you be willing to ask yourself or daringly ask the Lord about the word or words that will define your legacy? Whatever that word(s), it will ultimately help shape your destiny and perhaps history. Your legacy word is discovered by defining your power, determining your purpose, and discovering your passion.
Personally, I bequeath unto my nieces, nephews, and godchildren a legacy of loyalty. I leave to them a life of living reflections of what it looks like to exercise devotion, allegiance, and faithfulness to my God, my family, and my friends. I want them to recognize and appreciate memories of these acts of loyalty and observe how that affection and commitment to and for others influenced and changed lives. I pray God gets the glory by how relationships are strengthened, souls are inspired, spirits are encouraged, generosity is unleashed, and selflessness increased.
God has given you only one life, so make every day, every moment count. Remember, the power of legacy is all about what you give, not what you get; its not about you, but others. Everyone leaves a legacy, so make your legacy matter!
now what, Linda? 