DAY 5 — LEGACY BEYOND YOUR YEARS

"And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." 2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV)

Background: Paul was nearing death when he wrote these words. Yet his vision was alive because his life was invested in people who would carry on the mission. Paul’s buildings are gone, his possessions forgotten, but his legacy endures because he discipled Timothy, who discipled others. This is the only legacy that outlives the grave: those who are shaped by the gospel also shape others.

Illustration: In a touching scene of SOUL ON FIRE, John has a heart-to-heart with his dad, Denny O’Leary. As his health was failing, Denny was able to remind John of his eternal hope—that even if he didn’t experience healing of his body on this side of eternity, he still had hope for a different type of healing. Denny’s faith, despite his present illness, and his vulnerability to share it with his son is a reminder of our eternal hope and legacy.

Reflection Questions:

• If I died today, who would continue walking with Christ because of me?

• Is my hope in my circumstances or my Creator? Am I sharing my eternal hope with those around me?

Call to Action: Discipleship is not a destination; it is a direction. You are either heading towards King Jesus or away from Him. Yes, train others up in the Lord, but make sure you are going that way first. You reproduce who you are, not what you do.

Prayer: “Lord, I want my life to echo beyond my years. Give me children in the faith who will outlive me, outlast me, and outwork me for the gospel. Let my legacy not be what I built, but who I built. Amen.”