Paul's Legacy


I didn't know Paul personally but I know about him because of the legacy he chose to 
leave.

Paul had lived for 54 years when his funeral was held.  His life had been what most 
would describe as a good life.  He made his living by farming, a farm on which he lived 
for most of his life.  He shared that life with a wife and many friends.  Over one 
thousand of those friends attended his funeral. There were many beautiful flowers to 
adorn the day and suggest fond respect.  The preacher spoke generously with kind 
words.  Friends recalled and related memories of good times shared.  Local media 
turned out with full coverage of what they described as an "event."  

As Paul lay in his casket, he saw and heard it all.  Yes, that's right—Paul saw and heard 
it all.  You see, the legacy Paul left was not an everyday average one.  Nothing was 
average about this funeral.  The funeral was held when Paul was 54 years old…and still 
living…and present for the funeral…which was held at Paul's own request.  At first 
thought, it may sound strange and surreal.  But Paul's motive was not at all unusual.  All 
he wanted was to share life, not death.  He wanted to give of himself to the people he 
loved and he wanted to receive the gift of friendship in return.  He wanted his 
flowers…and fellowship and hugs and love…while he was living.

God created us that way, with love to give and with a human system whose very life 
depends on the return of that love.  Research shows that babies deprived of love often 
die, even though their physical needs are met.  We thrive only when accepted, 
supported and appreciated—when loved.  One psychologist called it the bucket 
principle. Before one can give to others, one's own bucket must be filled up.  With that 
bucket filled, it is easy to give to others.  In good, healthy relationships, the bucket is 
balanced with regular deposits and withdrawals—love gifts given and love gifts 
received.

Funerals, buckets, or life…love is a universal language.  Is there someone you can give 
life flowers to today?


As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

John 13:34