Perspective
Leaving a Legacy
Have you thought about what you want your legacy to be? What do you want to be remembered for? A Barnes and Noble web search turns up 173 self-help books to steer you in the right direction. In fact, a book I’m reading right now on Christian leadership discusses the importance of carefully considering the legacy you may leave.
Recently, while visiting Luke Society ministry director, Dr. Pushpa Rout, in Orissa, India, I had the opportunity to tour the Taj Mahal with her Partnership Ministry Team. When his favorite wife died in 1629, King Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal, a timeless memorial for everyone to remember the woman he loved. He wanted to leave a legacy and, in earthly terms, he did. It is an impressive, beautiful structure meticulously decorated with inlaid semi-precious stones. Hundreds of thousands of people come each year from all over the world just to see the Taj Mahal, and many claim it to be one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
In 2000, I traveled to Israel with Ray VanderLaan, founder of the popular That the World May Know ministry. He showed us the Herodion, which was built over 2000 years ago. Herod first built up a base, a large hill, and then built a castle on top of that hill. Although one can no longer see the splendor of ornate decorations, tapestries and artwork that adorned it 2000 years ago, it is still an impressive architectural accomplishment, considering the process of building in that time.
Ray also brought us to a stable just outside Bethlehem. The Herodion was within sight of that stable. Jesus was born "in the shadow" of the Herodion. Herod was living in opulence while Jesus was born in a lowly stable. That speaks to the sacrifice and love God shows us in His grace. It is also an example for us as Christians who are called to imitate Christ. There are no physical structures that remain as witness of Jesus' legacy. But His legacy lives!
Christians can leave legacies that are timeless and relevant to eternity simply by the lives they lived. In Hebrews chapter 11, we read about several people who left legacies of faith. Their example, their legacy, is an inspiration and guide for us today. More recent legacy-leavers are Martin Luther, John Calvin, Hudson Taylor in China, Amy Carmichael in India, Johanna Veenstra in Nigeria, and Billy Graham among many others.
But perhaps we make a mistake when we connect fame to legacy. This passage from Hebrews tells us to look at our leaders. But it doesn't say to look at what they've built, or even at their abilities, leadership style or personalities. It tells us to look at the outcome of their life and to imitate their faith. A Christian's legacy is best invested in his/her faith. A Christian's legacy points to Jesus Christ.
I believe the greatest legacies may not be recognized in this life. The greatest legacies may be left by those relatively unknown to the world. We may only learn of these legacies in heaven.
Dr. Wrede Vogel