Stories of Grace

What Will Be Your Legacy?  part 1 ~ My Father’s Legacy

Posted by Brenda B. Gray in category Leaving a Legacy Touched by Grace on February 17, 2012

On December 27, 2010, my father made his final journey home. On the first anniversary of his passing, I took the opportunity to reflect upon the legacy he passed on to me.

My father was a hard working man, and passed on to me a strong work ethic.

My father was a giving man who helped anyone in need. He spent hours upon hours cutting fire wood to give to others. I remember the many times he and mom made the three-hour drive from their home in Roanoke Rapids to Mills Home in Thomasville delivering food and clothes they collected for the children. I am thankful he showed me, by example, the importance of giving.

My father loved life. He enjoyed telling a good joke and laughing as hard as you would as he told it. I am glad he taught me the importance of laughter and bringing joy into the lives of others.

My father was a Christian man who loved to share how God changed his life.  He was a bold witness. As a teenager, I remember him taking me on Thursday night visitation. No, he was not a pastor, just a person who felt compelled to share the Gospel. A few years ago he was in the hospital struggling with heart problems. During that time he wondered why the Lord had not already called him home and what purpose God still had for his life. While in the hospital he led one of his attending nurses to the Lord.

I am so grateful for the legacy he left as he lived out his faith and shared his love for Jesus. What a wonderful legacy!

Legacy

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy.

Legacy sung by Christian music artist Nicole Nordeman