We all want to leave our mark on this world and positively impact others. Something that says, "I was here and I made a difference!" We want to make the most of that dash between dates on our tombstone. How would you want to be remembered?
I suppose an aerial front row seat of your farewell service may give you an idea of just how far your influence has gone. With tears shed and hearts melancholy, there would be testimonials about your kind acts, your selfless and heroic deeds. Or maybe, one would speak of how you were an inspiration or perhaps how you gave some wise counsel or funny anecdote that positively altered someone's course, or at least, brightened someone's day.
How far is your reach?
Have you revisited your past to face those dark shadows that paralyze your present and cripple any future hope for freedom? Or, perhaps you've risen above the trauma and looked back to end the cycle of hurt and usher in healing for those coming after you.
How far is your reach?
The width, length, height and depth of one's reach is a personal decision.
Are you living fully in the present, engaging in relationships you are blessed to have, lingering over every delicious moment your heart beats and your lungs breathe air? Is your reach in time spent, purposeful conversations, active play, a consoling hug or a loving rebuke?
What of the future? Have you considered the legacy you will leave and the value of your past presence in the lives of your descendants? Will they sit in humility of their lavish inheritance?
How far is your reach?
Is it in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the earth?
Is it in cyberspace where your extraordinary words spark action, fill cups and blow wind into sails?
Is it in the softly spoken word of encouragement to the frazzled server at lunch?
Or, how about that cranky, sleep-deprived mama who feels so out of love with her child and suffers guilt for it?
Can you reach her?
The width, length, height and depth of one's reach is a personal decision.
Matthew 28:19-20 gives us an idea of just how far our reach can be.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the NATIONS, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (NKJV)
Not everyone can go to all the nations of the world. But, everyone can make a difference to someone in their neighborhood and community, city and state.
Can I encourage you to push open the boundaries, to rethink the parameters? As we work toward taking the nations, let us not forget those in our own home or around the corner from where we live. Lengthen your strides of kindness and stretch beyond the comfort of convenience. A word, a smile, a prayer. Someone is hoping, perhaps even desperate, for the gentle, healing touch of your reach today.