FEATURE
BY PASTOR CHRIS KAM
E very Christian leaves something behind when he or she is finally called home to be with the Lord someday . Leaving a legacy or a heritage is not an option . The question is , “ What type of legacy will you leave behind ?” This could be one of the most profound questions that may change the way you live your life .
You see , your family passes on a legacy to you – good or bad – because that is what they have , and you will passes on a legacy to your children by which they will live by . It would be reasonable to say that all parents would love to leave something good for their children to the best of their abilities . But what is the thing of greatest value that we can leave behind for them ? The things of greatest value would be reflected by what we put our time to . Excellence in academic pursuits and extracurricular activities are something Malaysian parents take pride in . Hence , the constant shuttle from one tuition to another after school and on top of that , all kinds of classes , from swimming to music . There is a mad race to chase after the things that we think will get our children ahead of the pack . But are they really things the greatest worth ?
An added challenge would be to pass these on to the next generation and beyond . “ A good person leaves an inheritance for their children ’ s children .” ( Proverbs 13 : 22 ) Generational blessings are to be a norm in God ’ s plan for our families . “ One generation will commend your works to another ; they will tell of your mighty acts . They will speak of the glorious splendour of your majesty , and I will meditate on your wonderful works .” ( Psalm 145:4 – 5 )
Martin Luther , a seminal figure in the Protestant Movement , was asked what he would do if he knew he were going to die tomorrow . His simple reply was " I would go out and plant a tree ." He would , in other words , leave behind a legacy of life that would grow on and on into the future . This brings into questions the focus of many in their quests to leave behind wealth , possessions and good academic
28 ASIAN BEACON 48 # 1 December 2016 - January 2017