Here is a sobering thought: Whatever you are in your lifetime lives on in your sons and daughters after you die! It’s a question not of whether you will leave a legacy, but of what kind.
“Legacy” is an interesting term that draws its roots from the Old English word “legend.” By definition, a legend is the section of a map that defines the symbols. For instance, a double line depicts an interstate highway, a fine black line stands for a state road, and a picnic table represents a roadside rest area, and so on.
Maps give us direction in life. They are the guidance systems that keep us on the right path by helping us to find our bearings and preventing us from getting lost. However, a map is only as accurate as its legend.
Your legacy is like a legend that shows people where you've been. It gives direction to those around you and affects those who come after you, just as your own heritage has influenced you. Each of us carries emotional and spiritual baggage—some good and some bad—that did not originate with us. This means that, to some degree, we are all recipients of “hand-me-downs” —especially our emotions, behavior, and lifestyle. The Bible tells us that [Adam] became the father of a son in his own likeness—in his image (Gen. 5:3). Also, God says that future generations experience both the favor and frailty of their family's legacy (Deut. 5:9-10):
“…for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, and on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing lovingkindness to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.”
Those words confirm that each of us is leaving a trail for others, possibly an impact on many generations to come. Powerful legacies require hard work, self-sacrifice, and deliberate planning. They don't just happen!
Ask yourself:
- What kind of heritage am I leaving?
- What kind of legacy am I planning?
Consider what steps would make the most sense for you in creating a legacy that will impact a thousand generations—for God's glory! Please feel free to contact me for a personal consultation to assist you in thinking through your options.
