Leaving A Legacy

Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me.

Psalm 71:18

EVERY MAN SHOULD occasionally turn off the TV to get a sober hold on reality, and there is no better way to do this than to stroll through a cemetery. Since mortality occurs in 100 percent of the male population, it’s good to be reminded that we spend a very short time on this earth.

But thanks to Jesus, death is not the end of the story. Our lives on earth can still speak volumes to those who come after us. The cold, hard headstone need not be the only memorial of our existence.

The church of St. Michael’s in Lyndhurst, England, dates back hundreds of years. At one point, the cemetery around the church fell into disrepair, and headstones were broken and scattered. Then church leaders repositioned the headstones as steps along the footpath leading up the hill to the church. In this way, all who go to worship there are assisted by those who have gone before them.

How can the memory of your life aid others in their eternal climb? Concern yourself more with character than comfort. Don’t go to the grave with your best work still in you. Strive to give more than you take. Use your time wisely. Center your life on God and His Word. In doing so, you will proclaim God’s power to the next generation, and you will leave a lasting legacy of His work in your life.

BOTTOM LINE

Start living and leaving your future legacy today. If you haven’t done so already, prayerfully create a life plan that can help keep you focused.

Moment of Strength: Hebrews 11:1-4