In Response to a Legacy

The other night I watched a video about the life of Billy Graham and about the legacy he has built. Part of me would love to have that type of legacy. Fiery preaching in front of millions of people. How cool would that be? But then I contrast that with a video that my own Granfather gave me this christmas. A video that he put together with some help of people at his church. I am reminded that my Grandfather's legacy means more to me than that of any great evangelist. Why? Because this man's legacy is me. If it were not for my grandfather's faithful life of prayer and following Jesus Christ I would not be who I am today. My Grandfather raised my father to love Jesus and in turn my father raised me in a faith that was grounded in scripture and focused on a loving God. I also know that this Man of faith that my children call "Opa" has spent much of his life in prayer for me. He has prayed for me in tough times and prayed for me in good times. He even prays for me when life is not going well for him. Opa has told me that he looks forward to the day when he will be in glory with his savior, but he also has said that as long as God keeps him on this earth even if he can do nothing else he will pray. What a legacy to have. So many people owe a great big thanks to Opa for his years of unselfish service for Christ and for his prayers on their behalf, but you will never see him asking for thanks. Opa sees prayer as his duty; like a soldier doing his job. The only difference is that Opa enjoys talking with his heavenly father. I have felt that prayer and I know that God has used Opa's prayer in my life. Now that I have children I know how important Opa's legacy is and I plan to continue it in my life and in the life of my children. Thank-you Opa for lifting myself and my family before the Lord of all creation in prayer.