We each have a story that is being written every day. On its pages, this story tells not simply what we do, but how we live.  What’s your story? Does your story include God’s glory?  A lasting spiritual legacy is about having a faith that gives a spiritual testimony to the glory of God.  In 2 Corinthians 3:2-3, Paul states this about the church in Corinth, “You, yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all. And you show that you are a letter from Christ, delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”

People read us like a book. Some may simply skim the pages and notice nothing at all, some may misinterpret the inconsistencies of our travails, while others may notice the reoccurring gospel theme in our life.  When people turn the pages of your story, are they reading a faithful testimony?  And when they come to the final chapter, would they come to the conclusion of a spiritual legacy?   This person trusted Christ.  This friend was humble, kind and generous to the glory of God. This sister/brother encouraged or inspired others in the faith.  This man loved—loved God, loved his family, and loved his church.

Leaving a lasting legacy begins with faith.  When we take steps in trusting God, our children will notice those footprints of faith.  As fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, we realize the importance of cultivating a faithful family. “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” There is no better place to grow together as a family than with the church.  God’s church not only offers biblical perspective, but is one of the few places that express hope, healing and reconciliation. God has chosen us and called us to be his people for his glory. We are challenged to live a life worthy of the calling.  While heaven will be our final destination, we will all leave a legacy on earth.  What will be our legacy?

Below are the answers that Pastor Glenn gave to the questions asked by church youth.

Q: What does it mean to leave a legacy?

A: To put it simply, “leaving a lasting legacy’ is giving glory to God or a spiritual testimony.

Q: Do we need to do something spectacular in order to leave a legacy? Or can we leave a legacy even if our lives feel very ordinary?

A: Scripture tells us that “So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (I Cor. 10:31). Thus, leaving a legacy can be as simple as doing our daily routines or it can be doing something out of the ordinary.  For example, for a teenager, it could be the daily chores at home or it could be leading a bible study at school.  For others, it may mean taking the time to teach the word to somebody or being a faithful and loving friend over the years, The possibilities are many.

Q: When thinking about our legacy, how can we keep from becoming too concerned about what people think of us?

A: By living a life of faith that is pleasing to God.  Scripture tells us, “without faith, it is impossible to please God. For he who comes to him, must believe that He is and that He is the rewarder of those who seek Him” (Heb.11:6) We are not here to impress others, but rather influence others.  The best way is to keep your focus on God and on how He may guide you.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to start thinking more about leaving a legacy?

A: My advice is first, cultivate your holy habit – devotions.  Allow His Word to speak deeply to you each day.  Secondly, seek the Lord in prayer and be available for how he may direct you where you are, what resources you can share, and what you can do for the church and others.   Thirdly, trust the Lord for what you do and the results.