July is a time for me to reflect on my heritage. My father, mother and mother-in-law were all born in this month. If my father was still living he would be 99 on July 20th. Six years ago my mother died on July 12th. So I have been thinking today about the inheritance I have received from my parents. Financially there was nothing, but spiritually I was blessed.
From them I learned that it is important to bless others with your spiritual gifts. My father had the gift of service/helps. Because of that many churches and a few Bible camps in Wisconsin were blessed by his construction skills. My mother had the gift of hospitality and blessed many traveling pastors and missionaries in our home. My mother-in-law was one of the best Bible teachers I have known, a gift that she passed on to her daughter, who blesses me in our marriage.
I also have the heritage of parents and in-laws who always put the Lord first in finances and time. Giving and church attendance was a given. As a child we were in church when others may not have been.
I always knew that my parents prayed for me but after I was engaged to Diane, I learned that my mother-in-law prayed for me as the future husband of her daughter. I am so grateful for God’s answers to her prayers for me.
I also have the heritage of parents and in-laws who were supportive of our call to ministry and ministry transitions.
I have also been thinking about the inheritance/heritage I want to pass on to my children and grandchildren. It may not be much financially, but I hope and pray that they will feel they have a rich spiritual legacy. I have reminded myself anew that to finish strong, I must take steps now to assure that will indeed take place. I challenge you to do the same.
