The Legacy We Leave

There are plenty things in Scripture I wish were not there. This is one of them. 

How on earth do I live a life WORTHY?

For that matter, worthy of what? Of accolades and awards? Of public awareness and celebrity? Of a spouse and children?

Is my worth determined by monetary success? by my children and grandchildren? by my status in the business world? how? HOW?

NO, according to Paul's Letter to the Church of Ephesus (Ephesians 4:1-3):

    I have been called. Called to what?

        I have been called to live a life of humility and gentleness

          I have been called to lead a life that is marked with patience and filled with love

             I have been called to be totally open to the working of the Holy Spirit in me.

Uh-oh

I would love to be one of those persons who, upon my death, words will gush forth of my character!

"What a truly loving woman she was" they would say

"She never had a bad thing to say about anyone" they would say

"Our lives will never be the same" - they would say

As I said, uh-oh ...not a saint, never been a saint, don't know that I ever will be a saint.

I do know this, my father's death has invited me to think a great deal about my own. What will others say about me? Will I have made a difference in the world?

I can only hope. 

Through Dad's daily living I saw a deep content of character. 

I witnessed a man who did not need or want public recognition.

Dad showed me the importance of offering what he had to someone in greater need. 

I saw a man live his "golden years" more gently than ever before.

Was he perfect? No, but those times he stumbled, he recovered with grace. 

Was he eloquent in speech? Sometimes, but I cherish most the many, many times it was just me with my Dad, both of us being totally honest and growing closer together with each conversation.

One afternoon a few years ago when we were going through a difficult time I remember Dad choking up and telling me how hard he was trying and I responded in the same way. There was something in those moments of vulnerability that allowed us to suddenly grin at each other, hug, and commit to trying together. I think that is what I take with me in these days ahead -- the willingness to be vulnerable, to learn and to grow as a woman of faith in a way that invites others to do so as well.

Now -- go out and hug someone you love today. 

You may not have them with you tomorrow.

Still enjoying the journey,

Debra

bebprov356.blogspot.com

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6 --

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