This weekend we had a family birthday party for a couple of our kiddo's. Some of us were sitting together and started talking about loved ones who are no longer with us. (I know this probably sounds morbid for a birthday party, but when you're talking about beloved family members and remembering the good times with them, it really was a blessing to share those memories!) I carried some of this discussion with me as I opened my bible for my devotions the next day.
My bible was given to me by my great grandparents when I was 16. It is a treasure to me, especially as my great grandma had written on the front page of the bible. I sat staring at the words in her handwriting, and sat remembering. As I was walking down memory lane in my mind, thinking of not only my great grandparents, but also my grandpa who died when I was a senior in high school, and my grandma who left us 10 years ago, I started thinking...
What made them so special?
None of them ever made much money. They were not famous in the eyes of the world, and hardly even in the little county they lived in. They possessed very few talents that would make other's think they were grand people. They did not own fancy houses or expensive cars. And yet, I think they were wonderful people.
What made them special is just the people that they were. Humble servants who loved their families and loved the Lord. What talents they had, they passed those loves on to their children and grandchildren. What time they had, was spent caring for and loving their families. When you were with them, you knew that you mattered to them. They were not perfect, but they loved and were loved.
I pray this is the legacy I am leaving for my children. I am not a perfect person. I don't have much money, very few possessions anyone would consider worthy, and will never entertain others with a great talent. But I do love my children, and they have my heart. I pray that someday they will look back at their time with me with the same fondness I have for my loved ones.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4
Those family ties will never be broken!
Blessings,
I love that idea of a legacy being left...and what a sweet one you are able to pass down to your kiddos. I spent the last year living with a homeschooling family of eleven and God used it to really just challenge and shape my view on (future) wifehood and motherhood. I am always encouraged by moms like you whose role as disciple-maker of her kiddos is being fleshed out. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThere is an inheritance for you and your children in your family - a rich, spiritual inheritance that is worth more than money:) What a gift to be able to share that on a birthday:) Thank you for sharing your message and memories!
ReplyDeleteI don't know you well, but I just feel the Holy Spirit prompting me to tell you that yes, yes, your children will. You are leading them and teaching them so well.
ReplyDeleteVery sweet post. You Blessed me today.I have had to get a new Bible because mine fell apart. It was so sad. But I have gotten a Grandmothers devotional Bible I hope it becomes a legacy.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing.
Blessings,
Sherry
What a beautiful post! Too often we forget what memories are made of!
ReplyDeleteThis post spoke to my heart - two days ago I was searching through old photos for a specific one from 30 years ago, and of course I came across so photos taken of people that aren't with us here anymore.
ReplyDeleteGood memories. Special people. People who, as you say, weren't lauded or given awards - yet made a huge impact on how I think and feel today. They are remembered.
Thank you for your post - it's a solid reminder to honor those who have impacted us (before they're gone) and to be mindful of the impact WE have on others...
Thank you for this post. I loved it!! I always always enjoy reading your blog. Keep linking it as I have little time to read beyond those who link up and those next to me when I link at someone else's Linkups :-) Thanks for sharing this over at WholeHearted Home this week. I hope you have a wonderful week...and stay warm!!
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