Leaving a Legacy
Adolph Hitler. Mother Theresa. What thoughts come to mind when reflecting on these two individuals? Although no longer living, the memory of their respective character continues on. They each left an enduring legacy. Your own legacy will outlive you as well. When the Lord calls you home, what legacy will you leave on this earth? What will those closest to you remember most about you?
I recently had an enlightening conversation with an elderly widow lady. At the time of her late husband’s death, they had been married for 54 years. On the surface, this appears to be an admirable accomplishment. But this sweet, gentle lady confided that she wasn’t sad when her husband died. Not because she was assured of his eternal salvation, but because of the way he had treated her and others during the course of their married lives together.
To acquaintances, her husband appeared to be a charming, friendly, and outgoing individual. But to those closest to him, he was known to be frequently overbearing and bullying, and exceedingly self-centered. To his wife, he was often verbally, mentally, and emotionally abusive. The most painful season of their marriage was the period of several years he was involved in an extra-marital affair. He eventually returned to his wife and marriage, but without remorse. He went to his grave believing he had done nothing wrong, and asserting that affairs are simply a normal and expected part of marriage. For his wife, the legacy he left behind was one of ill-treatment and deceit. She was left with hurt and pain, and as a result, was relieved to have a few years of peace and freedom to look forward to without him. How utterly tragic.
Each of us is given a brief opportunity to live a godly, Christ-like existence on this earth. We have a limited time to demonstrate the love and acceptance of Christ to those whom God places in our lives. The most important task one has during one’s lifetime is to positively impact others. The most significant calling one has in life is that of marriage. If you are reading this and you have room to improve ~ and we all do ~ don’t procrastinate. No one is guaranteed tomorrow. Our time here is fleeting and our marital relationships are paramount.
What will be your legacy? Will you choose to leave behind memories of love and devotion, or selfishness and egotism? Will you purpose to serve, or to be served? Will you resolve to elevate your spouse to a position of preference, or will you place him/her beneath your feet? Will your spouse reflect fondly upon your married lives together after your death, or will he/she find relief in your passing?
As we begin a new year, many choose to make self-improvement resolutions. I encourage you, from this day forward, to resolve to put your spouse above all else. If you stumble, start again. Wedded bliss can never be found by seeking your own happiness; it’s about aspiring to please your beloved and desiring his/her happiness above your own. You will find that when you put this into practice, your spouse will respond likewise, and you will experience marital harmony and joy unsurpassed.
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“An inheritance is what you leave with people. A legacy is what you leave in them.”
~ Craig D. Lounsbrough