The Special of the Day… From the Orange Moon Cafe…
“Legacy”
My 9th grade science teacher left a legacy of God's grace and truth in my heart, which leads me to echo the Apostle Paul in his expression of gratitude for the believers of Philippi:
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you" (Philippians 1:3).
Mr Middleton was a good educator, and even more, a gracious person. Most importantly, he was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, although even in those days, public school teachers were encouraged not to address religious matters. He nevertheless exemplified Christ in his demeanor, attitude, words, and actions. I believe he had effect on my conversion that occurred several months after my high school graduation. Interestingly, our paths crossed again a number of years later when I worked for a bank of which Mr. Middleton was a customer. We reconnected, and this time, were free to share what had become our mutual faith in the Lord Jesus. I saw him somewhat regularly for several years, until I left the bank. Sadly, I haven't seen him in more than forty years.
He came to mind last night. I don't recall what triggered the memory, but Mr. Middleton again graced my thoughts with recollections of being his student first, and then later, his brother in Christ. In both, he exemplified the Lord Jesus and had an impact on my walk with the Lord. There is nothing better you can say about a person, which led to my offering of thanksgiving and also the question of whether Mr. Middleton is still a resident of this present world. I haven't been able to track him down on the Internet yet, so it makes me wonder. Regardless, I rejoice in the memory of a faithful brother, and will pray for he and his family "upon every remembrance" (of course, if he has departed the present world, he doesn't need my intercessions!).
We leave traces and tracks upon the hearts of all whom we encounter. As one voice of old declared, "Every human being we meet is an immortal. We either help or hinder them along the path to their eternal destiny." Mr. Middleton helped. Of that I have no doubt. He left a legacy of God’s grace and truth, serving as a voice of Christ to me even when he could not openly communicate the Gospel. Mr. Middleton exemplified what another voice of old expressed, "Preach the Gospel wherever you go. Use words when necessary." I am grateful for my dear brother, and hope to cross paths with him again in this life to let him know. But if not, I look forward to seeing him in the Heaven to which his life served as a blessed and influential signpost. Again, what better thing can you say about. person?...
"Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven."
(Matthew 5:15-16)
Weekly Memory Verse
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
(Hebrews 11:1)
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