Hebrews 12:1 says,

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

I love the church tradition of remembering our Saints as we read aloud the names of those individuals that left a lasting legacy to our church and each of us. My Father entered the church triumphant on November 1, 1999. When I travel home to Neshoba County, I can still see him on every hillside on our family farm. I can hear his voice instructing me on what it means to be a follower of Jesus. I remember his joy. I remember his compassion. It is not enough, though, for me to remember him. I must honor his legacy as his son through the life I have been given and the opportunities surrounding me.

The Foundation exists today because there was a desire by members of Methodist churches in Mississippi to honor the legacy of individuals in their lives that were transformational to them. They were able to see that even beyond our earthly days, a divine mission is yet to be completed, and the task has now fallen to the next generation of followers. It is that generation that will carve out their legacy in the process.

I hope that we are leaving a legacy of love, compassion, kindness, and generosity. Those traits have stood the test of time as being the most memorable. Let us now honor our Saints by carrying the mantle forward and using our influence, gifts, and resources so that the world will hear the good news of Jesus.