There is a story about King Hezekiah that I think about from time to time. One day, Hezekiah was visited by emissaries from the faraway kingdom of Babylon. Wanting to impress, Hezekiah showed these emissaries all of the wealth of his kingdom.
The prophet Isaiah got word of this and asked, “Is it true? Did you really show them everything?”
Hezekiah said, “Everything. Why wouldn’t I?”
Isaiah said, “You fool. Don’t you see what’s going to happen?”
Hezekiah said, “What are you talking about? What could possibly happen?”
Isaiah responded, “Hear the word of the LORD: The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your predecessors have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD. And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood who will be born to you, will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” (2 Kings 20:16-18).
Hezekiah said, “This is good news!”
“For he thought, ‘Will there not be peace and security in my lifetime?’” (2 Kings 20:19)
Listen to that phrase again: “in my lifetime.”
Some people choose to live their lives like Hezekiah. Their own lifetime is what matters. Their legacy is for today.
This year is our church’s 75th anniversary. In the pages of this magazine, you’ll see pictures, stories, a timeline, and some save-the-dates for events this summer to celebrate 75 years.
A church doesn’t reach a 75th anniversary if earlier generations thought like Hezekiah. The legacy of our church is never just about yesterday or even today. We’re always thinking about tomorrow. We’re thinking about the generations still to come who will carry forward the mission God has given us.
I’m thankful to be part of a church with such a faithful history – a history that was never just about those who came before us. We benefit because of forward-thinking, faithful, and sacrificial leaders. May we follow in their footsteps.
God is Faithful.