Legacy – Making a Difference for Generations to Come!

“So, we must not grow wearing in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9).”

Recently I received a call that rocked my world. A friend’s number came through, but the person who left a message was not my friend. It was a lawyer calling to find out if my friend had any living relatives that I was aware of. I assume she found my number in this friend’s cell phone. This friend and I had separated over some differences and had not remained close. As far as I know, she died alone with no friends, or family around. She was not married and had no children or church affiliation. This friend was much older, yet she had unmet aspirations to write Christian fiction mysteries that made a difference for the Kingdom of God. It made me sad and begin to reflect on my own life and preparation for death.

I have some differences from my friend in that I still have family members living and my little sister has children to continue the family legacy. I am affiliated with a church and have Christian friends I remain in contact with. I have written a few books that are available to at least outlast me if people keep them and pass them on. Yet, I still question if I am making a difference for the generations to come.

As I questioned, the Lord reminded me that my time was not yet up and I have the potential to continue influencing those around me, to make a difference for the next generation and those to come. I may be a maturing plant, but I can still drop seeds of faith to grow in the lives of others and help make a difference in the ministries that will continue well past my life. I cannot grow weary doing good!

I may never know what impact I have made on the students I teach, or people who have read or at least skimmed my books. I may or may not have much impact on the lives of my cousins, niece, and nephew. However, it is up to me to at least try. I can pray and take every opportunity to share my faith with the next generation. May my life lived for Christ make a difference for those around me.

Do you stop to think what impact your life will have on others when you die? What do you want others to remember about you? Are you preparing to leave a legacy from your actions and influence? What do you want to accomplish before you die? Are you ready for that day? We never know when our time is up – we must live each day as though it could be our last and yet prepare for the future if it continues!