Pastor Virgil Lee
What will I be remembered for? This is a question that every person contemplates at some point in their life. When we gather with old friends, we often reflect on how we are remembered—you may have been the class clown, the most likely to succeed, the quiet one, the star, and so on. As we grow older, we begin to question the significance of our work. Did it truly matter? Was there value in what I did, aside from the paycheck I received? Deep down, we all have an innate desire for our lives to make a positive difference in this chaotic world.
As we age, the question evolves to, “What will my legacy be? When I am no longer here, how will I be remembered?” I’m sure we have all wrestled with these questions in some form, regardless of our age.
In reality, every life makes an impact on the world; the important thing is how we choose to influence those around us—whether for good or for evil. As long as there is breath in our lungs, there is purpose in our lives.
To take it a step further, many of us will, at best, become a footnote in our family histories within a few generations. However, we can have an eternal impact and a lasting legacy in the lives of others by sharing the love of Christ with them. We may never know how a kind gesture, a simple prayer, or even a smile can transform someone else’s life when done for the Lord. Only in Heaven will we fully see the extent of our legacies and the impact we made in the lives of others. The only thing we take to Heaven with us is the lives we have touched for the Gospel. If we try to bring gold to Heaven, St. Peter might ask, “Why did you bring pavement?” We can build monuments, yet St. Paul may say, “Why did you bring a paperweight?”
There is nothing wrong with creating earthly legacies. The issue arises when we sacrifice our eternal legacies for temporary ones.
Colossians 3:2 in the New King James Version states, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Similarly, 2 Corinthians 4:18 reminds us, “While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
Here is my challenge to all of us: How can we better focus on the things of God that have eternal significance? Where might the Lord be leading you to build a legacy of faith in your family, with your friends, or in your church? I believe that I still have purpose from the Lord—and you do, too. Let’s go make a difference in people’s lives for Christ.
If you don’t have a church home, we would love for you to attend New Life on Sunday mornings right here at Robson Ranch in the clubhouse at 8:30 a.m. We have a wonderful time together, encouraging one another through songs, messages, and fellowship. Whether you are looking for a church or simply need some encouragement, there is a seat for you at New Life.