Word for 2008

If you know our family at all, you know that we love music. We usually have something playing on the stereo downstairs (or lately, I've been using our computer to play favorite songs). And you can almost always catch our princess singing her way through the day!

That being said, it's no surprise that God often uses words of songs to draw my attention to things He wants me to give some attention to in my life. I was encouraged back in December to prayerfully choose a "Word for 2008" -- an area that I felt God was encouraging me to grow in. After much prayer and consideration, I chose the word "purposeful" . . . I want to be purposeful, focused, diligent in every area of my life -- relationship with God, family life, ministry, everything I do.

This morning I was reminded of my "Word for 2008" while listening to a song by Nichole Nordeman called Legacy. The words are (in part):

I want to leave a legacy

How will they remember me?

Did I choose to love?

Did I point to You enough

To make a mark on things?

I want to leave an offering

A child of mercy and grace

Who blessed your name

Unapologetically

And leave that kind of legacy . . .

Not well traveled, not well read,

Not well-to-do or well bred

Just want to hear instead,

"Well Done, good and faithful one . . . "

As I think about the choices and decisions I make every day, I want to be more purposeful and mindful of the legacy that I am leaving behind -- not financial investments or widespread fame, but of a life sold-out for my Savior -- that those around me and especially those closest to me will see more of Him in me tomorrow than they saw today. That will be a lasting legacy which will impact my children and even generations to come.