Christ’s Legacy

       “For we are God’s masterpiece.
        He has created us anew in Christ Jesus,
        so we can do the good things he planned
       for us long ago.”   Ephesians 2:10

Have you noticed that there have been an unusual number of births and funerals recently?  Everyone loves babies and celebrating their births.  But funerals can be hard, especially when we are not sure where that person has gone after death.
 
Recently I have been to at least three memorable funerals where the person being honored lived a full and amazing life of loving well and serving God.  Those caused me to wonder how people would remember me when I died.  How about you?  What legacy would you leave?

I was led to John 17.  In it Jesus is praying aloud to his Father at the last supper with his disciples.  In essence, Jesus prays his own eulogy. I realized in that prayer he presented his legacy, a life that fulfilled God’s plan and purpose for his life on earth.  I urge you to read it and see what jumps out to you.  These are a few verses that were highlights for me.

John 17:4 – “I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.”  Our Creator God has created us for specific purposes that only we can accomplish through his power.

John 17:20 - “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.”  The Father had given a message to Jesus that he entrusted to his disciples, and through them, to all who would believe.  The heavenly Father loves them and always has.  That includes you and me.

John 17:26 – “I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.”  Christ’s legacy has not ended.  When we carry his message and revelation of who God is, we carry on his legacy.  That blows my mind!

Dear friends, may you believe the Good News that the Father loves you and has given you the same legacy as Jesus.  May you put your hand in Jesus’ and trust him to empower and guide you into accomplishing your shared legacy.  Rejoice!  It’s not too late.  Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ April 29, 2025