Step Toward Legacy

Today, I learned what a legacy really looks like.  Ever seen one?  You would know it, if you did.

I looked up the definition, and it was so completely unimpressive.  Maybe that's because a true legacy is so much more than a few words from a dictionary.  It's a lifetime of love, faithfulness, and generosity.  A lifetime.  I don't know about you, but I'm 26 - and I can't say I've done anything 'well' for the entire span of my short lifetime.  A legacy is 'getting it right' - throughout your entire lifetime.  Consistency.  Determination.  Mistakes?  Absolutely.  But the good far outweighs the bad.  The gentleness far outweighs the anger.  The love far outweighs the bitterness, when you're leaving a legacy. 

I attended a funeral homecoming today.  A pastor - father - husband - son - everyone's best friend - everyone's favorite brother - gentle counselor -  constant encourager.  The list could go on.  I know, everyone says nice things at funerals.  But this was so much more than 'nice things'.  This was lives changed - transformed!  This man poured into people in a way that is so uncommon in our world of texting/emails/facebook (dare I say...blogs...?!).  This man loved in a way that other people don't - or can't.  He cared for people in a way that seems impossible.  He sacrificed things that most people just aren't willing to sacrifice.

How is it possible for one man to love - care - give - so much?

It's not.  

This man was special - yes.  But what made him special, was his connection to his Creator.  He had the 'inside scoop' because he was a friend to the Most High God. 

As I sat through this homecoming, I thought of my own life.  It's short (so far) - I'm young, I know.  But what could I be doing differently now, that could affect my legacy?  What could I change?  What MUST I change? 

I need to be more available - more obedient - more trusting - more generous - oh Lord.  I have so much to work on.  Do you ever feel overwhelmed at what God may be calling you to do?  Do you ever feel scared?  "Now, God?  Me?  You want me to do THIS?  Are you sure, Lord??".  A legacy says 'yes' to God.  A legacy moves on with grace.  A legacy forgets about what people say, and focuses on what God says. 

A legacy.

What will my legacy look like?  I have no idea - but it involves taking a step.  One step from wherever I'm at.   One step. 

One Thing I Know For Sure:  The first step is always the hardest.