Leaving a Legacy of Faithfulness
We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. (Psalm 78:4)
Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, and with his wife’s knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:36-5:2)
Bountiful sowing creates a legacy that echoes into eternity. Today we reflect on the kind of impact we want to leave for the next generation and for God’s glory.
There was a popular frozen pizza commercial with the slogan “What do you want on your Tombstone?” Obviously, the commercial was talking about pizza toppings. However, if we are honest at one point or another in life, we all question what people will say on our tombstone when we are gone. We think about the impact we may have made on the world around us. We question if what we did really mattered to anyone. We hope that the stories they tell about us bring joy and not anger.
In Psalm 78, David penned the words above to remind us of “… the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” The best way to know the work and power of the Lord is by joining him in his mission to seek and save the lost. When we join the Lord on mission, we will be leaving a legacy that points heavenward.
In Acts 4, we learn of Barnabas’s generosity and later we read about his faithfulness and encouragement of Paul (Saul) and John Mark. In Acts 5, we learn of Ananias and Sapphira, who are most remembered for lying to the church to make themselves appear to be more generous than they were. In contrast, Barnabas left behind a legacy of encouragement, joy and a lasting impact on the church then and even now.
So, what do you what on your tombstone?
Reflection:
- What kind of legacy do you want your children or grandchildren to remember about your faith and generosity?
- As Commitment Sunday arrives, what specific step of generosity would help you hear ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’?”
Prayer:
Extravagant Father, You gave Your only Son so we might have eternal life—thank You for modeling perfect generosity. Forgive us when we’ve held back, seeking our own legacy instead of Yours.
As Commitment Sunday approaches, stir in us a holy desire to leave a legacy of faithfulness like Barnabas—marked by encouragement, sacrifice, and wholehearted devotion. Help us give time, talents, and resources with open hands, trusting You to multiply them for generations to come. May our children and grandchildren speak of how we loved Jesus more than comfort, and may our story point them heavenward.
Well done, good and faithful servant—let these words ring in our hearts as we step forward in faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.