On August 3rd, my parents celebrate 50 years of marriage together! In today's world that is so rare and so beautiful. I am more appreciative today than ever about the stability they've provided and the example they've set for their family and others.
When I asked them recently about what makes a great marriage endure and thrive for 50 years, they said things like "mutual respect and admiration, compromise and flexibility, and shared values." To them, these are not just dream-world platitudes but a daily reality. The most significant value they share is their commitment to Christ and His mission. They made a mutual commitment, years ago, that their goal for our family was that we would be in heaven together when we die. Beyond a doubt, their primary focus has always been to advance the kingdom of Christ in our home and in this world. They have been committed to this cause even longer than they have been committed to one another. That is so beautiful and so rare.
That's what I want my life and our church to be focused on as well. There is nothing more important than fulfilling the will of Christ on this earth. Our lasting legacy will be the impact that we have made on our homes, in our community, throughout our city and world.
Stephen Covey once wrote that we should live our lives "with the end in mind". When you and I get to the end of our journey, what do we want to our impact to be? What do you want your legacy to be in your home and in our communities? Can I suggest something to you? I would love nothing more than for the people in this community to be able to say that there is a church in Liberty Township, Ohio that is marked by a deep commitment to helping as many people get to heaven as possible; a group of people that are so radically devoted to Christ and to each other that they are willing to make sacrifices, put others first, and make daily decisions that are aligned with those values. Can I ask you another question? What is keeping you from this type of commitment? What is standing in the way of you and Christ centeredness? Are you living in a way that is consistent with what you want to be your lasting legacy?