Remembered

For God, the Faithful One, is not unfair. How can he forget the work you have done for him? He remembers the love you demonstrate as you continually serve his beloved ones for the glory of his name. 

Hebrews 6:10 (TPT) 

Most of us want to leave behind a worthy legacy. We would like others to remember us after our passing and celebrate our lives as role models or heroes of our generation. For those of us who call Christ ‘Saviour,’ two paths stand before us. We can live our lives seeking the adoration of others, or we can live to serve others and leave a legacy that glorifies God. 

Those consumed in worldly things seek out and spend much of their lives in the pursuit of a celebrity status that will ensure they are not forgotten after their passing. Perhaps for them, such a legacy is the evidence of a life of value and purpose. Yet surely, such a pursuit is a wasted life - a form of idolatry, and like the carved idol that has no power, so too, the glorification of self is powerless. Those in Christ must look to another desire – to serve and leave behind an example that would lead others to demonstrate selfless giving.  

Most of us will not be remembered by the crowds or have a national recognition. For every publicly honoured figure of heroic service, there are many who have made similar sacrifices yet remain unrecognised. Each of those heroes that we have honoured and built up as a legacy and as examples worthy of remembrance are a point of contact for us to celebrate the many who are worthy of the same honour.  

If your motive in life is serving others, then nothing is ever lost because it is all about this moment. If we have made a positive impact today that has produced a benefit, then this is what matters. ‘Now’ is the moment when something good has happened and even though it may fade quickly from memory this should not concern us, because in the moment it has already born its fruit and fully accomplished its purpose. It remains valuable even beyond memory because it is an imitation of the character of Christ and when we imitate Him, nothing is ever lost or without eternal value.  

We should aim to be a positive witness in whatever we do so that our influence will benefit others. We may not become a global legend, but our legacy always lasts in the lives of those we have loved. Surely in life, we should aim to take advantage of every opportunity to become a witness and a hero to our spouse, our family and to others with whom we build a close relationship. Let them delight in the memory of you, and when all who would remember you have gone; it does not matter. That people in the future may not know your story should not concern you. Your purpose is to be a living testimony through every moment, to influence those around you, and in that you have immense value. As a follower of Christ your satisfaction is even greater. On the day you meet Him – He will remember you and all you have accomplished.  

We hope this short word helps in life, and in remembrance of those who have passed. May God encourage us as we walk in destiny, and may He comfort those who mourn.

Steve and Khanya