By Gina Caswell Kelly
Yesterday was an interesting day. I went to two funerals for two men, both in their 90s. The first one I attended was only the graveside. This man was not a very big man in stature, and was very soft spoken. Just a precious man. After my daddy died several years ago, Don came by my office one day out of the blue. He wanted to tell me something I had not known. This man was the first person my daddy ever baptized. He baptized Don’s wife Helen, as well. I had no clue until talking to Don that he was the first person Daddy ever baptized. I appreciated so much him coming to my office to tell me that. Later, in going through some of Daddy’s things, I found this documented. As I stood at that graveside, I just kept thinking of the two of them seeing each other in heaven. I was so blessed, as I stood near his family to think of the legacy of our two fathers, and the truly eternal connection we share. I thought about the different paths that could have been taken, but these two men chose to follow the path of the Lord.
The other service I went to was for another great Christian man. This man was well over six feet tall and had played basketball at Tech and holds records there that still stand today. He was not a quiet man. He was one you would notice when you saw him around town. Certainly for his height! But also because of his heart. He was a man who loved his family and loved his community. I listened as the preacher (who had played basketball with him at Tech) spoke of the heart of this one. I left the church absolutely smiling thinking about this man who has had such an impact on so many around him for so many years, and the legacy he has left behind.
What about us now? We are all gettin older every day. What is the legacy we are leaving behind for our families? Oh I so want my legacy to be one of knowing that I tried to follow Christ! There is that old song, “May all who come behind us find us faithful.” My prayer is that those who follow me will remember my faithfulness, and forget where I fell short. My prayer is that there will be those who will stand up and say, “She played a part in leading me to know Jesus.” My prayer is that when I am gone, there will be a space that someone will have to step up and fill.
What about you? What legacy are you leaving for your family? Let it be one of knowing and following the Savior. Let it be one of love and caring for others. Let it be one that will make people smile when they think of you.
The legacy we leave can make a difference now, and through all eternity. Are you leaving a legacy that makes a difference?
