I just happened to run across an article on the internet that was written by a friend of mine many years ago, a friend who has been with the Lord for more than a quarter of a century. Even after all these years he is still ministering to people by way of what he left. That got me to thinking–as I’ve often said, “You are going to die and they will bury your body, but your influence will live on and on.” We need to think about that more often and we need to act on the reality of it. Many years after you are dead and gone others will be affected by the life you lived.
Sadly too many times we think only of ourselves, with no concern for the welfare of others. Seems strange to me that many of those who curse their situation brought on by the ill deeds of others, turn around and do exactly the same to those in their life. I’m not smart enough to figure out why they do this—I just know they do. Listen, we all can look back and think of how others mistreated us, but that’s no excuse for what we do. It actually should be just the opposite. We ought to be motivated to do good to others because of that which we have suffered. Those who have been hurt deeply should be the most considerate of others.
Now back to the main point–What will you leave behind that will still be helping others twenty-five years after you’re gone? Remember, this might take several forms: influence, money, writings, music, teaching, poems, etc. There is something we all can do that will make a difference for good after we are gone. Do it! The need is great, the responsibility is serious, and the time is short. We just get one shot at life, so we better not miss the target.
As we enter the new year we need to think about this. We can all think about someone whose life was a blessing to us, so let us be the same to others. The value of your life is not measured by its duration, but by its donation. Robert Murray McCheyne (1813-1843) left us this good advice, “Live so as to be missed.” What will you leave? THINK ABOUT IT!
