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Our lives are like stories, woven together by the decisions we make each day. Some chapters are funny, others beautiful, and some may be tragic or sad. But every decision, every action, contributes to the narrative of our existence. As we navigate through life, it's crucial to consider not just the immediate consequences of our choices, but also the legacy we're creating.

What kind of story do you want told about you?

This question invites us to pause and reflect on the impact we're making, not just on our own lives, but on the lives of those around us. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget that our actions ripple outward, affecting others in ways we may not even realize.

But what exactly is a legacy? Some view it as building a bridge from where we started to a great place that others may want to go. Others see it as leaving behind skills and life lessons for the next generation. Still others define it as the tangible impact we leave on friends and family – the fingerprints we leave on every person we encounter.

While these are all valid perspectives, there's a higher calling we should consider. What foundation will our legacy be built upon?

There's a crucial distinction between being a legend and leaving a legacy. A legend is often surface-level, perhaps impressive but lacking depth. A legacy, on the other hand, has the power to impact lives for generations. Think about the difference between admiring a celebrity from afar and being profoundly influenced by a grandparent's wisdom and love.

As we contemplate our legacy, it's vital to examine what's influencing us. Our decisions don't happen in a vacuum – they're shaped by our experiences, relationships, and beliefs. One of the most powerful influences in our lives can be those we haven't forgiven. Holding onto past hurts can color our present and future in ways we don't always recognize.

For those of faith, there's an even deeper consideration: are we aligning ourselves with God's plan, or are we trying to make God's plan align with our own? This fundamental question can shape the very essence of our legacy.

The Bible offers powerful examples of individuals whose legacies transcended their circumstances and even their mistakes. King David, despite his grave sins, is remembered as a man after God's own heart because of his deep repentance and devotion. Joseph, sold into slavery by his own brothers, chose forgiveness and integrity over bitterness, leaving a legacy of love and reconciliation that saved nations.

These stories remind us that our legacy isn't defined by our worst moments, but by our overall character and the choices we make in response to life's challenges. Joseph's life, in particular, demonstrates how choosing integrity isn't always easy, but it's always the better choice. His unwavering faith and character brought blessings not just to himself, but to those around him – even to those who had wronged him.

The apostle Paul writes in Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." This passage offers a blueprint for a legacy that aligns with God's heart. It's not about achieving worldly success or fame, but about cultivating qualities that truly impact others for good.

Importantly, our legacy isn't something that starts in the future – it's being built right now, with every decision we make. The question isn't just "What foundation will your legacy be built on?" but "What foundation is your legacy being built on, right now?"

For believers, there's a profound truth to consider: we are called not only to leave a legacy but to become God's walking legacy in the present. This shifts our perspective from future impact to present reality. How are we representing God's love, grace, and truth in our daily interactions?

Jesus uses the analogy of fruit-bearing trees to illustrate this concept. In Matthew 7:18-20, He says, "A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits."

This imagery is powerful. It suggests that our actions – the "fruit" of our lives – reveal the true nature of our hearts. For those rooted in faith, there's an encouraging promise: as new creations in Christ, we have the capacity to produce good fruit going forward, regardless of past mistakes.

However, this fruit-bearing isn't something we can accomplish through sheer willpower. Jesus emphasizes this in John 15:5, saying, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." Our legacy, then, is not about our own achievements, but about allowing God's character to shine through us.

This brings us to a crucial point: our legacy is directly impacted by our relationship with God. It's not about perfection or never making mistakes. Both David and Joseph had significant flaws and faced immense challenges. What defined their legacies was their intimacy with God, their willingness to align their hearts with His, even in the face of adversity.

As we consider the legacy we're building, let's remember that leaving an impact on people's lives isn't just a future goal – it's our calling right now. For believers, Jesus Himself is our legacy, and He needs to be at the center of our decisions.

Ultimately, a legacy that truly matters isn't about personal glory or accomplishments. It's about allowing our lives to be a testament to something greater than ourselves. It's about choices rooted in love, forgiveness, and integrity. It's about fruit that nourishes others and points them towards hope and redemption.

So, as you go about your day, consider: What story are your decisions telling? What fruit is your life bearing? And most importantly, what foundation is your legacy being built upon? Remember, every choice, every interaction, is an opportunity to shape a legacy that extends far beyond your own life – a legacy that can impact generations to come.