We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. Ps. 78:4
Redeeming Lord,
You have commanded us
to tell the next generation about your “glorious deeds,”
“the wonders you have done.”
Today, on my 61st birthday,
I have no sense that my life is short,
but for all I know,
that proverbial bus may hit me
today, tomorrow, or next week.
For this reason, I ask you to help me
and to help my friends
become intentional
about the spiritual (non-material) legacies we leave.
May we live in a way
that reflects our knowledge of the love of Jesus Christ.
May we tell the stories of how you redeemed us,
rescuing us from the pit.
May we humbly and kindly pass on encouragement
from the experiences we have had.
May we share things we have learned how to do —
sew a quilt,
drive in the snow,
identify birds,
make our world-famous chili, etc.
May we speak and write blessings
on those we love.
And may we do all of these things
for the purpose of encouraging
the next generation to live
in faith (remembering your redemption),
hope (envisioning redemption in the midst of sorrow),
and love (caring for others as you have cared for us).
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read Psalm 78.
