Making Your Mark

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. (1 Corinthians 9:24-25 ESV). I was at a park some time ago and noticed one of those old benches that have several wooden slats for the seat. It looked quite old and by the carvings in the wood has served as the repository of a history of the people who have made it a place of rest. I suppose it was their way of “leaving their mark.” I began to do some thinking about that and realized that most people I know DO want to somehow let the world know that they were here. I am not saying that carving your initials in a bench will accomplish that. There are many other ways to do that effectively. Some people may accomplish this by doing something wonderful for mankind, as discovering a helpful vaccine, or contributing a great collection of art, while others may draw attention to them self by committing an evil, such as in how Adolf Hitler is now remembered for his attempt to exterminate all the Jews of the world. Of course there are less impactful things to do that will leave our mark on society too. Our time here on this earth is so short, isn't it? Being a dad to three young men I tend to reminisce quite often. Last night when I was looking at some new pictures of the grandkids I began to think that it seemed like just yesterday when I was holding him in my lap. Time seems to slip by so quickly. This month marks a special milestone in my son Aaron’s life. He has finished his Ph.D. and will be going to Georgetown University to begin his teaching career. I remember very well when he began this journey. It seems like yesterday to me, though I know it seems like forever for him! Well, the day has come. What a wonderful conclusion to his plan! He is beginning on his own now and will make a lasting mark of his own. My hope is that I have left a mark on all of my sons that will produce positive things. There really can be no better way to leave a legacy. All of my sons have made me so proud to be their dad. In spite of the mistakes I may have made along the way, they have been able to develop truth and character in their lives. When people remark how much we look alike, I am very proud. But, when people say that we act alike, I am sobered in thinking that I had such an influence in their lives. What about you? What type of mark will others remember you for? It is never too late to turn your life around, and it is never too soon to reach out to God for direction. Begin to make your positive mark today!