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Legacy of Love

What would you like your tomb stone to say about your life?

I’ve been asking myself what I want my legacy to be. I want to make a difference, not for my own pride or benefit, but for God’s purposes and glory. Like bringing people to faith, or changing social problems.
But that kind of legacy idea can become overwhelming and paralyzing. What if I fail? What if it becomes self serving?
Word
Perhaps that’s what Peter and the disciples felt too. But their perspective was changed on Easter. The risen Christ gave them a promise and challenge.
Hear Jesus words to his followers then and now in John’s gospel from today’s reading: “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” (John 13:34)
Jesus gave us a command. To love as he loved on the cross, to save all people and share life with everyone. That’s not easy. But comes from the gift of God’s love on the cross.
Connection
So, I don’t need an impressive tombstone, or Wikipedia entry. I want my legacy to be that I share God’s love with everyone today!
You and I have countless opportunities to love others each day. That’s how we follow the example of Jesus and share the gift or new life with everyone.
Message
The Good News is: God’s love is for all people, including outsiders. Jesus died and rose to bring us to everlasting life. The Spirit of God challenges us to follow the example of Jesus.
Jesus says to you: Leave a legacy of service today. Love one another as I have loved you. I died to save all people from sin. Share the good news of new life through your life.

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