What Will Your Legacy Be?

Since Mother’s Day, I have been considering the importance of leaving a legacy. What exactly is a legacy? Webster's dictionary defines it as “something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.” In a biblical sense, a legacy impacts future generations by leaving behind wisdom, wealth, or a testimony about God that makes a difference long after you're gone. Psalm 78:2-7 tells us the importance of leaving a legacy: “I will utter hidden things, things from of old, things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done…so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they, in turn, would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.” 

There are numerous examples of individuals throughout the Bible that have left legacies for future generations. Their examples of faith, perseverance, courage, and love for God are left to inspire us. 

When I think about biblical legacy, I think about Anna, a prophetess who worshipped God and left a powerful legacy of devotion to God. Anna's testimony is one of resilience and unwavering faith. At a young age, she experienced the profound loss of her husband, yet she chose to make the temple her home. The depth of her commitment to God, even in the face of such sorrow, is a testament to her faith and devotion. At the age of 84, she was still serving the Lord and praying "night and day." Still worshipping. Still serving. She witnessed something extraordinary because of her faithfulness and perseverance in prayer and fasting.

While writing my thoughts about Anna, I think of my mom who faced so many challenges as a single mom. My father left her abruptly when my siblings were all under the age of five. Despite the many struggles she went through to care for us, she lived a life of devotion and worship to the Lord. As with Anna, my mom never stopped sharing and telling others of the goodness of the Lord. She left a legacy for my siblings and me to treasure and to imitate. 

No matter where we are (singles, wives, moms, widows, grandparents), as believers we also have the privilege of leaving a legacy for others by worshiping the Lord and sharing the good news. The Christ-Child Anna was waiting for, lived, died, was buried, and rose again. He promised to send the Comforter, who has come, and he empowers all of us to tell our stories of redemption and leave our legacy.

Deborah was introduced to NEWIM when a friend invited her to the online book club. She loved the discussion and saw the benefits of getting more involved in NEWIM for her own life and for her church ministry. She recently enjoyed the Santa Cruz Springs Retreat.

Deborah is a pastor’s wife from Westchester, NY. She is a retired nutritionist, an aspiring writer, and Women’s Ministry leader.