Grandparents and their Giving Legacy

"What am I leaving behind?" These are the words on a small pamphlet that was given to our guests at this month's Grandparents' Day.

Here are some of the legacy messages included in this "non ask" piece:

• We are stewards of the gifts God has given to us. At the end of our earthly lives we will stand before the Lord and be evaluated as to how we managed the gifts God put under our care. We want to hear, "Well done my good my good and faithful servant."
• We cannot take our talent and wealth with us when leave this earth. "Do not store for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy, ..." Matt. 6:19-21
• There is a present joy in seeing your assets used and directing them rather than having them distributed upon your death.
• Grandparents can invest in future generations of students.
• Grandparents honor the Lord as they respond to His command to be joyful givers. "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Cor. 9:7

"How do I contribute to future generations?"

• Take stock of your blessings: time, talent and treasure.
• Ask God to give you the desire to be generous with these blessings.
• Pray for clarity and boldness to do something significant for the Lord.
• Seek out areas in the school where you can apply your time and talent. There are many volunteer opportunities available.
• Give financially - this commitment strengthens your partnership with the school.
• Consider planned gifts of stock, other non-cash assets or future gifts that might be included in your estate.

I hope you are asking, "So, how did it work?"

I don't know, yet. But, I am confident that if we communicate faithfully and respectfully and in keeping with God's precepts, we can expect a harvest. It will be on His schedule and His way.