Legacy.

Posted by Jason C. Helveston on January 15, 2009

I have breakfast once a month with some men from my church. The basement of the building fills with the enticing aroma of bacon and it throbs with the imparted love of Christ. A profound joy settles in that place not simply because we consume an entire pig but more poignantly in light of a brother’s testimony. Following each meal a guy shares his story: his story of failure, trust, humor, and transformation. This morning a dear friend of mine spoke of his journey. At times his words came quickly. At moments no words were necessary. At the end I had to seriously redefine my definition of legacy.

Quietly he recalled falling in love, coming to church, and meeting Jesus. He has attended [our average church] for over fifty years, he and his wife have taken in more than fifteen needy children, invited people to church, led families to become missionaries and ministers, raised his own children, and cared for a first born who had brain damage. His life is one that meets people where they are and cares for needs when they arise. To this day he fixes toilets, counsels couples, vacuums the sanctuary, preaches, prays, visits the elderly, works construction, and points me to Jesus.

His legacy does not consist of books, a pastorate, a strong portfolio, or any assemblage of fame. No my friend did not change the world…he has changed hundreds of worlds. And through my connection with him these past three years he can add one more world to the list.

I thought legacy was found in width; I learned it is found in depth.

I thought legacy was found in being remembered; I learned it is found in remembering others.

I thought legacy was found in popularity; I learned it is found in connection.

I thought legacy was found in success; I learned it is found in significance.

I thought legacy was found in the obvious; I learned it is found in the forgotten.

(Thank you my friend.)

*Reposted with permission from www.plethyno.blogspot.com