As Water Reflects a Face,

So a Man’s Heart Reflects the Man.

Proverbs 27:19

This week I attended two Memorial Services on the same day….a first for me.  As I sat and listened at both services, I thought about the words which were spoken for each precious soul.  Both ladies were wonderful Christian people, and both served God throughout their lives in their own special ways.  Each ulogy reflected upon a life of ministry and love.  The first service was for a beloved 93-year-old grandmother, whose Homegoing was more of a celebration than a typical funeral.  Yes, there were tears, but at the same time, there was rejoicing over the fact that she was in her new Heavenly Home, reunited with loved ones and awaiting the arrival of those left behind.  Family members all spoke of the legacies she left for them.  Not material possessions, but things that truly matter like character, work ethic, hospitality, perseverance, loyalty and love. 

  The other service was for a beloved teacher and coach at my sons’ school.  Her life cut short by complications of surgery.  Though she never had children of her own, the evidence of her love for children was seen in the faces of the hundreds of students who attended her service and in the words of several athletes who spoke of her impact upon their lives.    She seemed to be the kind of person who made everyone’s life better, just by knowing her.   Although her life ended too soon, her legacy will live on in the students, athletes, family members and friends who were privaledged to know her. 

     After hearing about the positive imprint these two women have left on so many hearts, I began to think about what impressions I am making on those who are closest to me.  What legacy am I leaving for others?  What are  my heart and my life “Reflecting?”  After spending this extraordinary day traveling to attend two funerals, I feel the need to pause and take account of how I am spending my time, what are my priorities, in whom am I “investing,”  whose lives am I blessing, and what type of “inheritance” am I leaving for those around me?  Our days are numbered, and we have no guarantee of living a long, full life.  I hope to be making every day count and fulfilling the purposes to which I am called.  I hope to be “reflecting” things from my heart and life that will make other lives better for having known me.