John Piper in his book “Don’t Waste Your Life” gives an illustration of a couple who had retired early from their jobs in the northeast and retired to Punta Gorda, FL. They were living the good life. Cruising out in their 30 foot boat and collecting sea shells. Piper says he wonders what Jesus would say when they showed him how their life had been spent. What will you leave behind? What will your legacy be? What will you say to Christ when you stand before Him? As people pass by your coffin how will they assess your life’s work and accomplishments?
Some work their entire lives to leave behind a monetary inheritance, a healthy bank account to be divided up among their heirs. Some will leave behind buildings, houses, lands and material properties. What will you leave behind? It was said about John Wesley after he died that he left little behind. He had given away 30,000 pounds. He had ridden over 250,000 miles on horseback. He had preached 40,000 sermons. What did he leave behind? A few books, a worn out clergyman’s gown and the Methodist Church. Churches and chapels with 135,000 members and 541 itinerant preachers.
What will you leave behind?
