Words for Christian Hearts: A Legacy of Love
In the midst of PCA’s 20th anniversary and the legacy wall dedication that will take place later this month, my spirit has been focused on legacy. Not only mine but PCA’s legacy as well. For me, a legacy is something handed down, endowed, or conveyed from generation to generation. I often think about what PCA is handing down or endowing to its families. In the midst of what is sometimes overwhelming expectations of those who love and support PCA, we must ask ourselves this question – is our legacy one of love for the Lord and are we sharing that love with everyone we serve?
God is never-ending, and his legacy of great love and forgiveness will continue until the end of time. In this, I am reminded of Psalms 103:17. “But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children.” Deuteronomy, a book in the Old Testament, provides a framework for how we should live and what we should be remembered for accomplishing on this Earth. It instructs us to love the Lord with all our heart, with all our soul, and all our might. Are these words truly in our hearts each day? Do we diligently teach these commands to our children? As the Bible says, do we talk of them, walk by them, lie down with them, and rise with them?
During this milestone year, I’ve spent much time thinking back on what PCA has accomplished in the last two decades and what we’ve yet to achieve. But most importantly, when we’re all gone, what will PCA’s legacy be to students, families, and the community? In 1997, PCA was founded by a faithful group of Christians who understood the Bible’s call to diligently teach the love of the Lord. They desired a school that binds the love of Christ as a sign on its hand, and as frontlets between its eyes. In those early years, questions about whether a school that openly proclaimed the gospel and a love for our Creator could be sustained. Could a school that partners with families to reinforce Christian values be a thriving educational institution? Absolutely! And as I sit here today, 20 years into the mission, I couldn’t be more proud of what PCA means to so many people in this city, state, country, and even across the world.
Each day, we leave our mark on PCA’s legacy. It is my prayer that we will all carefully consider our impact on PCA’s and how we can work to sustain it for future generations. Are we passing down a spirit of love? Have we done all that we can to share God’s word and grow His kingdom here at PCA and beyond. As we press on toward the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Deuteronomy 6:5-7), it is my prayer that we will grow stronger with God’s spirit and leave a legacy of love and service.
As I was reminded recently of some powerful words spoken about PCA and its families, “there are no lightning bolts or miraculous appearing of funds or buildings, rather something much more remarkable and powerful… a community of people who are passionate about impacting the future.” Whether your family chooses to volunteer, give, or pray, PCA’s great work is accomplished through individual acts of love. The PCA community is a special group of people that come together as an integral part of a big plan, God’s plan. I’m humbled by your kindness, generosity and servant hearts, but I shouldn’t be, you are His people doing His work in simple but powerful ways.
As I close, let me leave with you a prayer by Craig Parro from A Lasting Legacy: Investing Our Lives in People. “Our gracious God and Father, we want to leave a lasting legacy. We want to invest our lives in a way that will make a difference. Father, we ask you to not allow us to cling to what is comfortable. Keep us from shrinking back from the challenges and opportunities you have placed before us. We want to let go of all that will hold us back. Oh, Father, would you lead us, would you use us to make an impact for the kingdom, for your glory and for the good of many, many people. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.”
My speech and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a powerful demonstration by the Spirit so that your faith might not be based on men’s wisdom but on God’s power. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5
Thank you for reading!
Ron Mitchell, Ed.D.
President
