Nougat 8

Here’s today’s Holy Nougat ‬‬

“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.” ‭‭John‬ ‭12:24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

On the heels of posting yesterday’s nougat, another thing crossed my mind. What about the literal death? I hadn’t finished processing this thought when I got news that a great Korean theologian died. Then I heard that a long-time neighbor had also died. And both news confirmed that the thought wasn’t very far-fetched.

What impact has our life had on others, and will our legacy live beyond us?

Case 1 – Jesus

Prior to His death, Jesus had at least 100 followers around Him, not including the multitudes; but as indicated by the nougat His legacy involves millions of others over time – hopefully including you and me. Part of Jesus purpose required him to be alive, present and faithful. And He did all that. He offered Live Demos of God’s Grace and Love towards humanity in the temple, marketplaces and the streets. Whether preaching, teaching, healing or meeting and greeting; Jesus walked true to His God-assigned Purpose. Yet, there was the other part – where His Death offers life even today. And only Death could take it to fulfillment.

It’s ironic isn’t it, that for many of us our income may seem negligible, our pension even more paltry; but upon death, our insurance is usually enough to cover major costs. It could be an indication that our net worth ought to be greater in impact than in direct output.

Granted, for some of us it’s not always about literally dying; it could be our willingness to let go; to surrender to God; or more critically, to walk away from that which has the potential to impact others positively. It could even be that we need to start anew.

I don’t know what it is that we are called to individually but I suspect that for some of us; it’s the Paul-Apollo principle. Remember Paul said he planted, Apollo watered; but God gets the increase! We each have the potential to sow into others lives at every opportunity. It could be us Mentoring or Sharing God’s Love or just Giving to someone in need.

Are we planting positive seeds in the lives of others? And where the planting was effected by others; are we rooting up or watering? Will God get the increase from our life and after death?

What did Jesus say, whatever we do for the least is unto God. And that isn’t always extra time or treasure that we can afford to lose. It may be a real sacrifice for us. That might be our grain of wheat that dies! Let’s not waste it.

Lord may our legacies prove impactful for those we leave behind.

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May all we seek be found in Christ