What is the best inheritance we can leave for our children? For the second time in a row, the answer I received to my question about eternity was more about a concern for the legacy one leaves for future generations. Ji, from China, and later, Victor, from Chicago, both in their late 20’s, downplayed the importance of their own existence after death and focused on how they will be remembered in the next generation. I saw this in Ji as an effect of the honor for one’s ancestors in traditional Chinese culture, and for Victor it might possibly have to do with his Jewish and Catholic heritage, both of which often venerate one’s family legacy.
In fact, though a young man with hopefully a long life ahead
of him, Victor has just finished making out his will, wanting to be prepared
for any eventuality. I congratulated him
for having the foresight and preparedness that most young men his age don’t give
much thought to, along with the confidence to deal positively with the prospect
of his own demise. It went along with
his belief in trying to be a responsible contributor to the general welfare of
humanity and especially his loved ones, regardless of whatever happens to him
after he leaves this earth.
Interestingly, throughout the Bible there is not much
mention of leaving an inheritance, but much more about receiving one. Just what kind of an “inheritance” is the
Bible talking about believers receiving?
Most mentions of the “inheritance” to be received by God’s children have
little to do with possessions or monetary gain.
The treasures to be gained are more of a spiritual nature, such as
referred to in 1 Peter 1:4: “...an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or
fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you...”
Other references to this inheritance simply describe it as
“the Kingdom of Heaven”, “The Kingdom of God”, “eternal life”, “salvation”, the
“imperishable”, or “the hope to which he has called you”. This is a whole different perspective than
the secular view, whose focus is on a material inheritance. As we look forward to our spiritual
inheritance, it makes me think that maybe the inheritance we strive to leave
behind for future generations should be more of a spiritual nature as well.
Better to leave them an inheritance that can never perish,
spoil or fade, a blessing that builds strength of character, that gives hope,
and that establishes godly priorities. This might be an inheritance that sets
an example to the next generation of integrity and a strong work ethic, of
generosity in giving away material possessions while one is still living, or by
giving away what often becomes our most precious commodity, our time.
Ultimately, the greatest inheritance we can leave our loved
ones, while we are still living, can be the same hope that we have received:
the Kingdom of Heaven, salvation, and the hope of eternal life. I would encourage Victor to focus on his
spiritual inheritance now, while in this life, so he can leave an inheritance
to his children that will last into eternity.
Thanks for allowing me to record our conversation,
Victor! It can be seen at https://youtu.be/hwqAilN36Aw
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