February 2, 2016
Leave a Legacy
Even
the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. - Mark 10:45
Read:
2
Chronicles 21:4-20
When a
road-construction foreman was killed in an accident, the love of this man for
his family, co-workers, and community resulted in an overwhelming sense of
loss. His country church couldn’t accommodate all the mourners, so planners
moved the service to a much larger building. Friends and family packed the
auditorium! The message was clear: Tim touched many lives in a way uniquely
his. So many would miss his kindness, sense of humor, and enthusiasm for life.
As I returned from the funeral, I thought
about the life of King Jehoram. What a contrast! His brief reign of terror is
traced in 2 Chronicles 21. To solidify his power, Jehoram killed his own
brothers and other leaders (v. 4). Then he led Judah into idol worship. The
record tells us, “He passed away, to no one’s regret” (v. 20). Jehoram thought
that brute force would ensure his legacy. It did. He is forever commemorated in
scripture as an evil man and a self-centered leader.
Although Jesus also was a king, He came to
Earth to be a servant. As He went about doing good, He endured the hatred of
those who grasped for power. In the process, this Servant-King gave His life
away.
Today, Jesus lives along with His legacy. That
legacy includes those who understand that life isn’t just about themselves.
It’s about Jesus—the One who longs to wrap His strong, forgiving arms around
anyone who turns to Him.
Lord, in Your death as well as in Your life, You did the will
of Your Father and served others. In some small way, help us to serve others
with our lives today.
A life lived for God leaves a lasting legacy.
Source: Our Daily Bread 2016