What Will Your Legacy Be? (Lent Devotion 2021)
“I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, I HAVE FINISHED THE RACE, I HAVE KEPT THE FAITH.” (2 TIMOTHY 4:7)
Standing there watching Jade, a strong, young, handsome Cree man say “I do,” was a thrill I will never forget. It was during the middle of the Covid 19 pandemic. They had already postponed the wedding on his First Nations Community of Muskrat Dam, Ontario where he grew up. But they decided, even though the numbers of allowed guests would be low, they would go ahead with the wedding any way.
Jade had been through a lot in his life on the “Rez,” but his mother raised him with love and great wisdom, teaching him Godly principles. He also happens to be the nephew of my Cree wife, Linda. We have also spoken into his life and have walked with him since he was born. He even stayed with us for his first year of high school.
The Bible teaches that when we train up children in a good way, they will not depart from it, even when they are old (Proverbs 22:6). The Scriptures teach that when we follow God, our lives will have a huge impact on others. Jade’s mother had an impact on Jade, as did others like my wife Linda. Jade's mother’s impact on Jade has been so profound and it has influenced the legacy Jade is now creating for himself. We believe that some day he may be an important Chief! He is already a great leader and is highly respected by his peers.
What does this have to do with Lent? For me, Lent is a time of deep reflection. Sometimes we may feel that our lives are not making an impact on others. But as I grow older, I realize more and more that everything we do has an impact on others. Everything!
As you meditate during this Lenten season, I challenge you to think of what Jesus did for us in His life, what He did for us on the Cross, and how it has absolute eternal consequences. It gives us our eternal salvation, a reason to live and also a guide for how to live. As Jesus laid His life down for us, Jesus is also calling us to lay down our lives for Him daily and for others too.
The legacy of our Lord Jesus Christ is amazing and clear. What is your legacy going to be, both now and when your journey is over? Jade's mother gave everything she had to influence him. Others did too. To see Jade, a Young Cree Native North American man, following Jesus, standing for Biblical principles, and committing himself in marriage was beautiful.
In a world where so many live uncommitted to following Jesus and to biblical truth, what a joy to see Jade stand tall for real life and real truth. In Jade's words, “I want my wedding and life to be an example to my people.” Many were watching through social media. And a community leader was heard speaking on Wawatay Radio, a First Nations radio station that covers a large part of the north, on how unique this was in our day and how special it was. God is already blessing Jade as he walks in truth!
During these very uncertain times, I challenge you to keep walking and to keep following Jesus. Let that be your legacy. Just like Jade's mom, your impact on others will be far-reaching and eternal! You too are impacting others more than you may ever know.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you so much for all you did for me on the cross. Please help me, no matter what I am going through in these extremely uncertain times, to lay down my life for you and others. Help me to run my race well and to finish strong, leaving a legacy that inspires others and truly glorifies you! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Rick Martin
Manitoba, Canada