What is the legacy you want to leave behind?
As a modern disciple of Jesus Christ, my legacy should be a living testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, reflecting the love, truth, and redemptive grace of God in every facet of my existence. It’s not about monuments or earthly accolades, but about a lasting impact on hearts and minds, pointing others to the Savior.
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:
2 Timothy 4:1–2 (ESV)
preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
Here are the key components of the legacy I pray to leave:
- A Deeply Rooted Faith, Authentically Lived: My legacy should be one of unwavering faith in God’s Word, demonstrating that His principles are not just ancient texts but living truths that guide and sustain. This means living out my convictions with integrity, humility, and courage, even when it’s unpopular or challenging. People should see that my faith is real, not just a label.
- Unconditional Love and Compassion in Action: Jesus commanded us to love God and love our neighbor. My legacy should be characterized by practical, sacrificial love for all people, especially the marginalized, the hurting, and the lost. This means actively pursuing justice, showing empathy, and extending grace. It’s about being known for how I loved, rather than how I was loved.
- A Proclaimer of the Gospel, in Word and Deed: My life should be a clear, compelling witness to the Good News of Jesus Christ. This means being ready to share the hope I have, not just through eloquent words, but through a life that exemplifies the beauty and freedom of following Christ. It’s about sharing the Gospel relationally, naturally, and with genuine concern for others’ eternal well-being.
- A Steward of God’s Creation and Resources: I believe I am called to be a responsible steward of everything God has entrusted to me – my gifts, time, finances, and the environment. My legacy should reflect a commitment to using these resources for God’s glory and the flourishing of His kingdom, not for personal gain or fleeting pleasures.
- A Catalyst for Discipleship and Spiritual Growth: My legacy should extend beyond my own spiritual journey to empowering and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. This means investing in relationships, mentoring, and fostering environments where people can grow in their faith, discover their God-given purpose, and become active participants in building God’s kingdom. I want to leave behind not just converts, but mature disciples who will, in turn, make more disciples.
- A Pursuer of Reconciliation and Unity: In a fractured world, my legacy should be one of striving for reconciliation – with God, with others, and within the Body of Christ. This means actively working to bridge divides, forgive others as I’ve been forgiven, and promote unity among believers, demonstrating the powerful witness of a unified church.
- A Glimpse of Heaven on Earth: Ultimately, my legacy should be a small reflection of the coming Kingdom of God. Through my life, I want to offer a tangible taste of the peace, joy, righteousness, and hope that are found in Christ. It’s about living a life that points to something far greater than myself, a life that shouts, “Jesus is Lord!”
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8 (ESV)
In essence, I want my legacy to be that I lived a life wholly devoted to Jesus, impacting others for His glory, and leaving behind a ripple effect of faith, hope, and love that continues long after I am gone. It’s about being a faithful servant, a loving neighbor, and a passionate ambassador for Christ.
R-Rated Religion 