During my tenure of working with Christian business owners, I’ve noticed that the topic of legacy rouses some tension in our conversations. There seems to be three mind-sets towards the concept of legacy:
We do not acknowledge our life experience as worthy of sharing,
We feel it is prideful to admit our impact on others,
We avoid the subject of our mortality.
Ironically, these responses are egocentric; the object of the aversion is oneself. Perhaps if we look at legacy as our responsibility, as an act of service and obedience, we would hold a different view.
There is great worthiness in discovering our calling and inspiring others to find theirs. We should acknowledge that we are works-in-progress, striving to become the masterpiece that has been in God’s plan “since before we were conceived”. As we transform into our unique God-given character, our life experiences convey stories of hope, obedience, perseverance, and faithfulness. Worthy of sharing.
For certain, we can demonstrate false humility if we are pride-filled about our accomplishments and circumstances, taking all of the credit for who we are. When we acknowledge our dependence on God for everything we have and everything we achieve, particularly how God uses us to influence others, there is no selfish motive.
Finally, there is a duty involved with legacy. It is our responsibility to perpetuate our traditions, values, tribal knowledge, and life experiences. Think of these things that have been lost in your own family; the legacies that were not stewarded well to the next generation. Think of the things you need to preserve.
If you recognize how God works through you, and in turn respond in part, it is His legacy. There is no unworthiness there, there is no pride in that, and for certain there is limited time to convey it. There is a unique story being written in you, about you. That is a legacy worth sharing.