A Legacy That Lasts
By Pastor Claude Thomas
I awoke to my father’s voice as he gently shook me. “It’s time to go to the mountains, bud.” I got out of bed, pulled on my clothes, and prepared myself for the day. Over the roads in the misty morning, my brother and I traveled with dad to the mountains for a day of trout fishing. Dad taught me how to catch those trout. I watched as he cast that lure so gracefully in the ripple of the stream or in the eddy of the current and reeled the trout in with strong carpenter’s hands. I learned how to catch fish watching and listening to him.
My father birthed within me a distinct affinity and love for the mountains and the trout stream. He developed and nurtured that love through our frequent trips, and I learned the joy of fishing.
He left me a legacy that will last. However, the legacy is more than learning how to make my way along a trout stream. It is one of giving. He not only provided me the opportunity to discover the wonder of the mountains and trout fishing, he did more. He invested himself in me. His greatest legacy was that he gave.
My father’s influence on my life has inspired me to instill in my four sons an appreciation for the wonder of the mountains and the joy of fishing along with teaching them the lessons that my dad taught me so well. I have learned that legacies that last are those that are birthed out of love, inspired through commitment, and solidified in sacrificial giving.
What is it about a lasting legacy that is so appealing to us? The answer is that it implies that we are making a difference now in such a way that it will have lasting affects. With that in mind, I am convinced the idea of a lasting legacy motivates us to Christian giving for three reasons.
First, I am persuaded people want to make a significant difference in the lives of others now. When you give in the name of Jesus you are making a difference in the lives of others for time and eternity.
Second, I believe people need to know what they are doing is right. So, from time to time, teach a series of lessons on the Biblical basis for giving.
Third, I believe people want to follow the example of people they admire and love. When Christian leaders are givers in the name of Christ they set an example that will inspire others to give.
And finally, and most importantly, look to Jesus, our supreme example, a see how He gave Himself for us and made the difference in us. We point to Him as our example.
You and I are never more like Jesus than when we are giving. And the inspiring example is a legacy that lasts!