Leaving a Legacy
In my article today I would like to ask – what kind of legacy would you like to leave? Do you know what leaving a legacy consists of? Google states, to leave a legacy means: “giving something that will be valued and treasured by those who survive after your death. It requires thought to ensure that any items that have meaning to you will also have meaning to those you designate to inherit them.” So what does this look like for you? For me, there are so many things I want to leave such as: the example of loving others well, helping people find their purpose, showing the importance of spending time with loved ones, serving others intentionally, instilling good values, inspiring others for the greater good, and finally making it a priority to give back. Though there are so many others areas I could list, these concepts are just a few that come to mind. However, when I sit and truly reflect upon leaving a legacy, my mind automatically goes back to the words “this life is not really about me, but about Him and the mission I have been called too.” I do want to be remembered just like everyone else, but I want to look set-apart and want my life’s work to have made an impact on others by bringing to the cross. I also know that once I am gone, my name will eventually fade away. With this said, other questions I need to ask myself is – Did I live truth out to the ones that I love? Was my life proof that there is only one whose name will last forever? I hope I will be able to answer yes to these questions and be proud that I truly can leave a legacy that I am proud of because I have fulfilled my mission to the best of my ability. As I listen to the lyrics in the song, I am in full agreement to the way I want to leave a legacy. If anyone knows me, they will know that my heart’s desire is not to leave a legacy that will elevate my name, but that of “only Jesus.” In the song, the lyrics go on to say that “I’ve only got one life to live and I’ll let ever second point to Him.” Hearing these words, is this your heart’s desire too? Would you say that your life points others to Christ?
Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.
2 Peter 1:12-15
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
How do you want to leave your legacy?
Do you have specifics areas that you feel are significant to pass along?
What is keeping you from pointing others to Jesus?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - is it important for your name to be elevated or is it- “Only Jesus”