Legacy, Stewardship, and Thanksgiving

Last week was Thanksgiving. For Americans, it is a time to gather as families and with friends, share a traditional meal, and express gratitude for the good things in life. For many, it is a time to give back to others through community service.

Legacy fits beautifully into the Thanksgiving season as it aligns with the themes of gratitude, reflection, and intentional living. Thanksgiving provides a natural opportunity to connect with family and friends, reflect on God’s blessings, and consider the values and memories you want to pass on. Here’s how legacy ties into Thanksgiving:?

Recently, my SAT-7 colleague, John Frick, CFRE, MCM, MBA VP of Development, joined the Unconventional Ministry podcast I host to discuss legacy and stewardship. Here is the link to our podcast conversation. List now.

1. Gratitude for God’s Work in Your Life

• Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how God has worked through your life and blessed you with opportunities to leave a lasting impact.
• Legacy Connection: A heart of gratitude reminds you that your life’s purpose and impact flow from God’s grace. Sharing this gratitude with others encourages them to recognize His faithfulness.

2. Passing on Values to the Next Generation

• Thanksgiving is often celebrated with family and friends, making it an ideal time to model and share values like faith, love, generosity, and thankfulness.
• Legacy Connection: Use the time together to discuss family traditions, stories, and lessons that reflect your faith and priorities, ensuring these values are carried forward.

3. Reflecting on Your Influence

• The Thanksgiving season prompts reflection on what you’re thankful for, including the people and opportunities that have shaped you.
• Legacy Connection: As you reflect, consider how your life shapes others and whether your actions leave a Christ-centered legacy.

4. Building Deeper Relationships

• Thanksgiving gatherings strengthen bonds and create opportunities to connect meaningfully with loved ones.
• Legacy Connection: The love and encouragement you invest in these relationships become part of your legacy, leaving others with a sense of belonging and inspiration.

5. Giving Thanks for God’s Eternal Promises

• Thanksgiving reminds Christians to express gratitude for God’s eternal blessings, including salvation and the hope of heaven.
• Legacy Connection: This season is an opportunity to testify about the Gospel and point others to the ultimate legacy of eternal life in Christ.?

Several Practical Application Questions:

• Do you share family stories of faith during Thanksgiving dinner?
• Did you pray together, thanking God for His blessings and guidance?
• Did you serve others in your community as a tangible expression of gratitude, demonstrating a legacy of generosity?
• Did you write letters/emails of appreciation to loved ones, emphasizing the values you hope they’ll carry forward?

Thanksgiving is not just a day to give thanks but a reminder to live in a way that inspires others to follow Christ and continue your legacy of faith, gratitude, and love.

Do you need any help planning your legacy? Here is a short video explanation to help you get started.