What kind of legacy do you want to leave?
and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2
Heavenly Father,
In this world,
the focus of leaving a legacy
is often on making a name for ourselves.
We ask you,
by the mercies of Christ our Lord,
to help us “walk in the way of love,”
that we might become “models of goodness” (Titus 2:3, The MSG).
Help us to throw off the sour smell of self-centeredness,
to give ourselves up as “a fragrant offering and sacrifice to [you]” (Ephesians 5:2). Help us to live out our unique giftedness and passions
in ways that draw others to inhale the fragrance of Christ.
Draw us to repent quickly when we sin
and to live lives
characterized by seeking
and granting forgiveness.
Help us to inhale the pure, fresh air
of our righteousness in Christ
and to exhale the sweet scent of words
that build up and encourage others.
In this way, Lord,
we will live lives that matter—
to you, and to others.
In this way,
we will live the legacy we want to leave.
In Jesus’ loving name. Amen.
Read Ephesians 5:1-2; Titus 2:1-8.
