Legacy Building
So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:25-32
Where I grew up, my mother always taught me that we as her children have a much bigger responsibility than just ourselves. We were representatives of our family, and our success and failures reflected not only her but also her mother and those before her. That is pretty hefty stuff to hear as a ten-year-old, but as I have grown older, I have worn those words like a badge of honor and have tried to instill those words and lessons to my children as well. After all, there is a legacy that I must uphold.
As Christian, we too have a responsibility to God. We are to serve Him as living examples of Jesus Christ. Like many things in life, we do well in some things and not so much in others. However, the goal is not to be perfect. It is to continuously pursue and grow to be like Him. That requires some work, but it is a worthwhile endeavor. The key is not to regress because it is also human for us to feel like we have it all together, and suddenly fall off track.
Jesus’s teachings are lifelong lessons that at times need reminders. I was encouraged to read Ephesians 4 by my group this week and found the latter part reflective of me. Not that I delved into to deceit, thievery, or harsh words. However, there were moments where I told my child something that was not the whole truth or got frustrated with something my wife said. If unchecked, those could be footholds that can disrupt our peace with God. When we read God’s word, we are often given insights as to how to behave in a way that honors Him. Other times, like these verses, it is more of a reminder to avoid certain habits and behaviors that could derail us from living a life that gives Him glory. Furthermore, it makes it much easier for others who represent Christ.
As my mother said of my family’s legacy, we too have a legacy to protect as Christ followers. It is a badge of honor to wear proudly. But like most things earned, it is not something you get and just toss away. Decades ago, an airline company had a slogan that said, “We have to earn our wings every day.” Serving Christ is like that because while we can never earn the grace given us, each day we can show others what a walk with Christ means in our actions and words. So let us rededicate ourselves to being the Christians in the words of Matthew 25:21 where, “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’” What habits can you change today to be more in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ? Where do you need to recommit to Him? My prayer is that we remember the teaching of Christ as our actions continue to build His legacy. Amen.