1 Corinthians 3:12-15
Every man's work shall be made manifest…because fire shall reveal it; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work endures, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss
Every individual, irrespective of status or condition,
leaves a legacy behind. We often equate legacy with tangible assets – homes,
bank balances, items of sentimental value. However, a legacy is not solely
about material possessions. It extends beyond the physical realm into the
spiritual. Today, I would like to talk to you about an exceptionally
significant aspect of our lives: Leaving an Eternal Spiritual Legacy.
Our lives are but fleeting moments in the grand scheme of
the universe, a brief whisper in the winds of time. It is incumbent upon each
one of us to use these ephemeral moments to make a lasting impact, to leave an
indelible mark - a spiritual footprint. That footprint should echo our faith,
our beliefs, our values. The deeds we do, the lives we touch, the lessons we
share, and the love we spread shape it.
In the Book of Proverbs (22:1), the wise King Solomon
testified, "A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be
esteemed is better than silver or gold." This good name that Solomon
speaks of, that is our spiritual legacy. A legacy that is more valuable than
any material wealth because it shines brightly in the heavenly realms and the
hearts of those we have affected.
So, how do we craft this eternal legacy? We look no further
than the life of Jesus Christ. He lived an incredibly humble earthly life, yet
His spiritual legacy has changed the course of history and lives on eternally.
Christ led by example, serving the needy, healing the sick,
loving the unloved. His life was a testament of unconditional love, mercy, and
grace. It did not matter that He had no physical wealth to leave behind. His
spiritual legacy was, and still is, immeasurable. He left behind a trail of
transformed lives, a message of salvation, a pathway to the Father.
Our spiritual legacy should likewise be one that speaks of
love, faith, compassion, kindness, and generosity. It should inspire our
progeny, our community, and reach even those not yet born. Our actions, words,
and attitudes should reflect Christ, so much so that when people remember us,
they remember Him. That is the eternal legacy every Christian should strive to
leave.
There are many ways we can weave this spiritual legacy into
the fabric of our lives. Through prayer and regular communion with God, we can
gain wisdom and guidance for our path. By immersing ourselves in scriptures, we
can equip ourselves with the spiritual knowledge and moral compass we need as
followers of Christ.
In practical terms, we can leave a spiritual legacy by
mentoring others in faith, volunteering, serving our communities selflessly,
promoting peace and justice, and loving unconditionally, as Christ loved us.
These are the elements that will form the threads of our spiritual legacy.
As we reflect on these words today, let us ask ourselves:
What eternal spiritual legacy are we building? How will we be remembered in the
hearts and minds of those we leave behind? As a guide, a beacon of hope, a
vessel of God's love?
Remember, we are all called to be ambassadors of Christ in
this world. Every step we take, every word we speak, every act we do should be
in line with this divine calling. Be intentional in crafting your eternal
legacy, a legacy that will lead others to Christ long after you are gone. Let
us remember the message of Corinthians: (2 Corinthians 4:18) “While we look
not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the
things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are
eternal.”
Each day is a fresh opportunity to add to this eternal spiritual legacy. It starts now, not tomorrow, not next week, and not in the new year. Right here, right now, let us craft a spiritual legacy that will shine brightly for the glory of God, from now into eternity. May God guide your steps in this journey!