Living to Impact

The intensity of loss we feel when dear ones depart is directly proportionate to their impact on our lives.

Recently, a beloved member of my community bid farewell to his granddad, who had lived a long, fulfilling life. He had the joy of seeing his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren thrive, and his presence was a constant throughout their journeys. His passing was deeply felt despite having fulfilled his role in their lives and there was nothing more he could do. This man, who departed from a hospice at a ripe old age, was more than just a family member-he was a pillar of strength and love.

But he has left behind a treasure trove of memories. He was a shining example of love and a life centred on Christ, not just to his immediate family but to the entire community. 

The tributes posted by his family members are a testament to how he touched the lives of everyone around him. He would even cut the hair of his grandchildren, despite having no experience in hairdressing, to help his children save money for other needs. He made sure the large family gathered annually to strengthen their bonds. He was the sturdy trunk from which they all branched out. 

One big three with numerous branches has fallen. The impact is profound, and so is the loss.

Living to impact the lives of others is what gives our existence on earth purpose. This impact, this legacy, remains even when we are weak, old, unable to contribute further, and finally wither away.

 #LegacyOfLove

#FamilyBond
#FaithAndMemory
#LifeWellLived
#CherishedMoments
#InLovingMemory
#LossAndHealing
#StrengthInFaith
#GenerationalImpact
#TributeToLife

"Take Time to be Holy"

“Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;

Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone.

By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;

Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.” (William D. Longstaff)

One of the great hymns that exhort each other in worship is indeed ‘Take Time to be Holy’ by William D. Longstaff. Written around 1882.

It emphasizes an essential aspect of biblical spirituality--spiritual life is lived intentionally, it requires effort. Billy Graham said years ago that to go to hell we don’t have to do anything, the road leads there anyway. But to make it to heaven, one has to really steer away.

Holiness is not just having good thoughts, deeds or attitudes. It is not defined in reference to us or to our world around. It is living a life that pleases God. God alone is holy and he demands that ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy’ (1 Pet 1:16 ESV). Actions, words, thoughts, attitudes and all that do matter but only if it meets God’s standards. His holiness is the standard for our holiness. This holiness requires determination from our side, it doesn’t come automatically.

The reason for making conscious effort to lead lives that meet God’s standard is that the ‘world rushes on.’ The world is in a mad rush and it can carry us with us unless we are careful. The world keeps us busy so that we have no time think about anything at all and that includes God. So, we get caught in this mad rush that forces us to even ignore to eat, sleep having time with our families. This combined with a lifestyle that ignores God is the recipe for disaster. So, it is important to pull aside from the maddening crowd and its din to find quality time with God.

This requires us to focus on Jesus, spending time in secret prayer and meditate his Word. To grow into his likeness is a wonderful goal in life.