THE GOOD NEWS COMES CLOSER

 

Joshua 24:14-22; 2 Timothy 1:3-6; Matthew 18:1-6

Introduction:

Peace be unto you, beloved. This week's reflection is the theme that touches the very core of our existence as Christians and parents: "Our Legacy for Our Children." 

The Dictionary defines legacy as "a gift by will, especially of money or other personal property. Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past." 

Legacy consists of everything you leave behind, which is tangible and intangible in nature. Inheritance brings to mind the property passed on from a person who dies to a rightful heir. So inheritance can be seen as a subset of legacy. Legacy is bigger than just inheritance.

The legacy we leave is not merely about material wealth or accomplishments; it is about imparting faith, values, and a godly heritage to the next generation.

A Covenant with God

In Joshua 24, we see Joshua addressing the Israelites, urging them to serve the Lord faithfully. He reminds them of God's mighty works and calls them to make a deliberate choice: "Choose you this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). Joshua sets an example by declaring, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

The people resolved to worship the Lord after reflecting on the old path of their forefathers with the gods from Egypt and that of the Amorites saying, "Far be it from us that we should forsake the LORD to serve other gods." (Joshua 24:16).

Joshua teaches us the importance of making a clear, unwavering commitment to God not just for ourselves but for generations to come. Our children watch our actions and decisions closely. When they see us prioritizing our relationship with God, they learn the value of faithfulness and dedication. Our legacy begins with our commitment to God, which sets the foundation for our family's spiritual journey.

Our covenant with Christ must be our legacy to our children. As the adage goes, "The follower learns from the one who leads." Therefore as parent figures in the lives of our young ones, we must carefully focus on what we do with our Christian faith because you may be swaying some children in Christ from Him.

Also, as children in Christ, we must be diligent in studying the Scriptures to correctly decide on the right legacy to go with. Joshua reminds the people of the wrong legacy their fore-bearers left behind and makes the right decision. Choose this day, who will worship?

Passing Down Genuine Faith 

In his second letter to Timothy, Paul commends Timothy's sincere faith, which first dwelt in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. Paul reminds Timothy to "stir up the gift of God" that is in him (2 Timothy 1:6).

This passage highlights the generational transmission of faith. Lois and Eunice nurtured Timothy's faith, creating a spiritual legacy that empowered him to become a devoted servant of God. 

As parents and grandparents, we must actively teach our children about God's love, grace, and truth. Paul indicates, "a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well." (2 Timothy 1:5). We can only give what we have as a legacy. The legacy we want to pass on must first dwell in us to pass it on.

Our prayers, guidance, and example shape their understanding of faith and encourage them to embrace their spiritual gifts. Meanwhile, children learn best through imitation and modeling, therefore, the legacy must first be exhibited in you for them to imitate. Paul puts it, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1)

Embracing Humility and Childlike Faith

In Matthew 18, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility and childlike faith. When asked who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Jesus calls a little child and says, "Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:4).

Children embody innocence, trust, and humility—qualities that Jesus urges us to emulate. To leave a lasting legacy, we must cultivate these virtues in our children. By teaching them to rely on God and to serve others with humility, we prepare them to become true disciples of Christ.

On the contrary, if we fail to leave a Christlike legacy to the young ones and lead them to sin, Jesus says, "It would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea." (Matthew 18:6). What an unforgivable sentence to serve. Let us wise up as people of God.

Precious one, our legacy for our children does not imply biological children only if any, but anyone who looks up to you for a legacy. Therefore, let us be on guard as Christians in our societies, we are the light for all and the real salt for all.

Note these points; 

1. Live Out Your Faith: Let your daily life reflect your commitment to God. Your children learn more from what you do than what you say. Model a life of prayer, worship, and service.

2. Teach and Nurture: Create opportunities for spiritual growth. Share Bible stories, pray together, and discuss the importance of God's word. Encourage them to develop their personal relationship with Jesus.

3. Build a Supportive Community: Surround your family with a faith community that reinforces your values. Church involvement, fellowship, and Christian friendships provide a strong support system for your children.

4. Never lead others to sin: When your actions and inactions lead others to sin, God's wrath will befall you to crush you, therefore, live a Christlike life no matter where you may find yourself.

Conclusion:

Our legacy for our children is a spiritual inheritance that surpasses all earthly treasures. By committing ourselves to God, nurturing genuine faith, and embodying humility and childlike trust, we pave the way for our children to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

Remember Joshua's words and renew our commitment: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." May our legacy be one of unwavering faith, love, and devotion to God, passed down from generation to generation. Amen.

Shalom aleikhem...