What is the Measure of a Man?

I recieved a phone call last night that saddened my heart. A friend of mine, someone with whom I had the pleasure of serving in ministry with, died suddenly while on vacation with family.

After the phone call, I sat outside looking out over the lake, remembering my friend and recalling what I knew of his life, his legacy. What would be the measure of this man?

I have no doubt that my friend would be remembered for his care, his deep love for our heavenly Father, his compassion for humanity, and an untiring dedication to reaching outside of the four walls of the church.

The question that is plaguing me today is this, if I were to be whisked out of this world tomorrow, what would my legacy be? How would I be remembered? Would I be remembered as a man of integrity, a man of compassion, a man who loved the heavenly Father with every fiber of his being?

The Measure of Man

Not “How did he die”? But “How did he live?”
Not “What did he gain?” But “What did he give?”
Not “What was his station?” But “Had he a heart?”
And “How did he play his God-given part?”
Not “What was his shrine? Nor “What was his creed?”
But “Had he befriended those really in need?”
Not “What did the piece in the newspaper say?”
But “How many were sorry when he passed away?”
Was he ever ready with a word or good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.

Author Unknown

How will you be measured?

Peace!
Jimmy