Legacy

Psalms 41:4-5 KJV

Legacy. We all want to leave our mark on this world, and many strive to be remembered beyond their lifespan. One of the greatest tragedies of human life is one that does not invest in others and produces fruit that lasts even after death.

When studying these scriptures I learned that in ancient cultures, to not be remembered was comparable to having never existed. When reading about the life of Joshua we encounter such a circumstance. Of course, Joshua is remembered today as a great warrior, conquering numerous nations and their kings, but he did have one downfall. He had no successor.

When Joshua was late in age, there was still a large amount of land to be conquered. He compels the people to take the land that is rightfully theirs and later goes on to ask how long they are going to wait before doing so. The Israelites seemed content with the land they already had, and when Joshua did pass away, they asked the Lord “Who should lead the Canaanites and launch the attack?”

No one picked up where he left off, and we see that Joshua did not have someone that he spent time with, taught, and discipled, to lead the people after he was gone.

What impact will you make on the community and family you live in? Who are you investing in that will pick up the torch and keep fighting the good fight, even after you have passed from this world? Are you making genuine connections with people, making disciples, and moving the kingdom forward?

Will your life leave a lasting impact on future generations to come?