Legacy of faith begins with family’s intentional choices

by Lisa Janusa

By Lisa Janusa
NOLA Catholic Parenting

What does the word legacy mean? It means something that is passed on and has special meaning and value.

People who have material wealth may want to plan financially how their goods will be passed on to their heirs. Others may choose to leave behind funds for a particular cause, such as a school scholarship, museum or hospital.

Money and property are not the only things of value that we can share with future generations. I believe something that has the greatest worth in the life of a Christian is his or her belief that Jesus Christ is God and that God has given his life for us as ransom for the forgiveness of our sins.

How can we make our faith in God a legacy that will impact the lives of our friends and family? Consider the following statement of what can happen to faith in a family. It is a downward progression.

Grandpa faithfully attends church. Dad thinks attending church is optional. Son considers attending church unnecessary. Grandson says, “Jesus who?”

This is a warning to us that if we neglect to share our faith with our family and loved ones, then faith might disappear completely.

Everyone can think of one person or relative who impressed you with his or her own example of a faith-filled life.

Many years ago, when traveling on a pilgrimage, a friend of mine experienced a great breakthrough in his life. He remarked that he believed this was the direct result of his grandmother’s prayers for him. She knew how important it was to pray for our loved ones each day.

Jesus left all of us a great legacy that was meant to be lived and passed on to others. His legacy is most essential to our success, and it should prepare us for our ultimate destination, which is heaven.

In Scripture, Jesus counsels the rich young man “that if you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” – Matthew 19:16-22.

Jesus reminds us that the goods of this world are temporary and that our ultimate goal and priority should be to follow and imitate him. Material things should not be the focus of our lives, and, in fact, they may even hamper us.

Christ established the church and appointed his followers to share the good news, to care for the sick and to spread God’s love to everyone we meet. We can pass on our legacy by our example of living a holy life in word and deed. Don’t let others miss out on this legacy of love. It depends on you.

Lisa Janusa is a mother and grandmother in New Orleans and has been a St. Dominic Church parishioner with her husband for 50 years. A big part of her life has been spent serving God through various music ministries in St. Dominic Church and School. She is proud of her Catholic faith and is happy to share her knowledge and experiences in her life with readers.