Now Sarah lived 127 years; these were all the years of her life. Genesis 23:1
Sarah lived 127 years. That’s all. Period. End of the writing of her story on earth. Her memory would live on and we are still reading and talking about her today, but as far as altering her story she only had 127 years of days in which to write it.
Most likely none of us will have that many years to write our story. We don’t know how many until our story is fully written, but almost certainly it will be less than Sarah’s years.
One thing we have in common with Sarah, however, is that the sum total of our years on earth will complete the writing of our story or at least the impact we can have on writing it. The legacy we leave behind and the memories we implant in the minds and hearts of others will be determined by what we do with the number of years we have.
That is a powerful thought to me this morning. I am building lasting memories, my legacy. I am writing my story. The things my family remembers most about me, the results of my work and ministry and the treasures I leave behind will be decided by the way I live the total number of my years.
That is true of your life also. How are you doing? If the story of your life was on it’s final page today, have you written the story you wanted to write? If not, then what changes do you need to make?
Grab your pen and start writing a new chapter. Allow God to alter your path and head you to a better ending to your story if you need Him to do so. Evaluating your story now may help your final story be a better story than it would have been without that consideration.
What is one change you could make in your life to write a better story?
Pastor, I read a great book recently from a fellow Portland writer named Donald Miller and a member of our Imago Dei congregation. The book is A Million Miles. Donald Miller wrote Blue Like Jazz another great book. What I love about Donald's new book, A Million Miles is it's about living our story. Plot: Film industry came knocking on Donald's door after success of Blue Like Jazz and wanted to make a film about his life story. Turns out the producers let Donald know his life was boring, so they had to do something for the big screen.
Your post made me think you and your readers might enjoy this book.
That's a great book. I read it when it first came out and didn't think how it ties in here, but it does. Thanks for reminding me (and others).
We only have one chance to write our story. This isn't a dress rehearsal and there are no do overs. It's a heavy responsibility but an awesome opportunity.
Love the imagery. Thanks for adding to the thought process.
Several members of Deane's family do geneology. The basic stuff…who, what, when, where. Born in 1895 – died 1989. Deane says while that is all well and good, what he's interested in is the 'dash'. What happened in those years between 1895 and 1989. That's the important stuff. A person has no choice about the dates… but that dash is who they are.
You should not only build your story but you MUST listen to the old ones and learn about their story. And their parents story, and their parents. Then you have to tell your children and their children.
Good thoughts Teri. Thanks.