My Spiritual Heirloom (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

With my father’s recent passing, my sister and I had the somber task of going through his personal effects. One item was a watch which he had previously told me that he would give to me upon his passing. My father treasured that watch and he wanted to know that I would always remember him when I wore it. As I placed it on my wrist, I was overcome with emotion as memories of my father flooded my thoughts.

Someday, I hope to leave some heirlooms to my children. It may consist of my guitars, my Bibles, and perhaps some articles of clothing and jewelry. But the most important heirloom will be spiritual. What spiritual legacy will I leave to my children?

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (ESV)

The crown of righteousness is given to all believers who are faithful to Jesus Christ. It is a reward and prize that all believers should seek. But unlike a watch or material heirloom, it cannot be handed down to my heirs. Only God can grant it to them if they have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Therefore, the greatest spiritual heirloom I can leave to them is to provide a godly environment where God may work in their lives to draw them closer to Him. I need to continually place my children in the pathway of God’s grace.

Before I die, nothing would give me greater joy than to know my children are walking closely with God. Any heirloom I leave them would be meaningless unless it is a godly spiritual heirloom.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.