“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
Today is my Dad’s birthday. He was my dearest friend. He went to be with the Lord 25 years ago. A small man in stature, he was a giant in my life. But I didn’t realize how he had impacted me until he was gone. He was a preacher and pastor. Most of what I believe and preach today comes out of the foundation he established in me. I think he started me off right.
Dad never went to high school, college, or seminary. He never wrote any books. He wasn’t famous anywhere except in my life. He was never interviewed by the networks. He never had much earthly wealth. But he taught me about the importance of Scripture. He taught me about integrity and commitment. He taught me about loving-kindness and enduring to the end. He taught me the importance of eye contact when addressing a congregation. He taught me about humility and forgiveness. He taught me so much . . . a lot more than can be related here.
I was privileged to spend the last eight months of his life taking care of him and mother. I have no regrets because I was able to tell Dad how much I loved him and appreciated the legacy he had given me. But over the last 25 birthdays, I have carefully considered his legacy and joyfully discovered much more than I had realized during Dad’s lifetime. Some day I fully expect to discuss it with him over coffee beside the River of Life. Of course, it is now my turn to leave a legacy to my children. What will I leave behind?
Dear Father, thank you for your legacy of grace and mercy. Thank you for the blessed privilege of a Christian heritage. Forgive my faults and failures. Empower me to leave the proper legacy to those who observe my life. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his legacy and endure to the end,