Legacy.
I’ve been thinking about that a lot, lately. I guess it’s only natural as we age to consider how we are going to be remembered. What difference did we make to the people God placed in our path? Are we going to “outlive our life?”
As I write this, I am sitting in a 207 year-old log cabin built by my husband’s ancestors. It has been moved a few times in its long history, having been victim to floods and new roads. But still it stands, hand-hewn logs stacked just so, forming tight joints and strong walls. This cabin was built to last.
And that makes me wonder: are we building our “cabins” to last? More specifically, am I investing in the people in my life in such a way that they are being fortified and strengthened for the next generation?
Paul knew that. He understood that his responsibility was not only to see that the gospel of Jesus Christ was shared, but that others were equipped to share it. His relationship with Timothy was crucial to his legacy. He even referred to Timothy as “his son in the faith.” (1Timothy 1:2) Paul encouraged, reminded, and ministered to Timothy. He invested in him and therefore in his own legacy.
In the second chapter of Titus (another of Paul’s ‘son’s in the faith,’) older women are instructed to live in a way that honors God and to instruct the younger women in the faith. (Titus 2:3-5)
So, let me ask you, Who is your “Timothy?”
Father, thank you for your Son, Jesus, Who rescued Paul from being the worst of the sinners (1 Tim1:15). Help me to look for opportunities to fulfill the instructions found in Titus 2. Help me to build a legacy that brings you honor and glory. In the matchless name of Jesus, Amen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dolly Mink has a heart for women who are hurting. Years of experience in Christian leadership have given her a unique perspective and she is eager to share her observations insights, and words of encouragement all in a way that honors her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Dolly serves on the Women’s Ministry Leadership Team at River Oak Church in Chesapeake, and on the SBCV Women’s Ministry Leadership Team.
To read more, visit her blog, Grateful for the Grace.
