A Biography of "Your Name Here"

Former President Jimmy Carter (39th) recently passed away on December 29, 2024. During his funeral, several people shared not only his accomplishments but also the impact he had on others. He served in many different ways, from being President to serving in the Navy and contributing to his community. He left behind a large family, including many great-grandchildren. Several speakers at the funeral mentioned, as I’m sure many others would agree, that he served in extraordinary ways throughout his long life. Like many presidents, Jimmy Carter has a biography written about him, and it makes me think, “What would someone write about me?”

As I reflect on this current event in our country, it reminds me of a few important truths. The fact is that we all die one day. Maybe you will live to be 100 years old or much younger. We are not eternal—at least not yet. There is more to life than what we can consume. The question is, what can we give or pour out to others? In the time we have here, how are we serving the Lord? Will we leave behind people who know Him? How will people speak about us at our eulogies? Did you know God, and did He know you?

Acts 11:24 speaks of Barnabas in a way that  inspires me: “For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord.”

God deserves all the glory for salvation because He is the one who loved us so much that He gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to take our place on the cross as punishment for our sins. What an honor and privilege it is to play even a small role in leading others to His amazing, saving grace! Barnabas had a part in that work, and it made a lasting impact.

What kind of impact are you making? What will people remember or write about you one day? As men and women, we have people looking up to us. Are we leading them in the way of the Lord, or are we leading them in the way of ourselves? As we strive to be holy this year—which we are called to do—let us do so in a way that is impactful for the kingdom of heaven. Let us remember that even one person coming to salvation is celebrated in heaven!