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). Many years ago as I was walking through a park, I noticed a bench beside the path. It was made of wood. It looked quite old and had served as the repository of a history of the people who had passed that way. Some folks merely marked the moment of their passing by carving their names in the bench. 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. One evening last week when we had a fellowship at our home, Faith and Logan came around the corner of the house. Kyle was with them and 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. Today I am especially reminded of that fact since it is my 64th birthday! Well, my hope is that I have left a mark on my family and others 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!