2 Corinthians 2:15-16
“For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those
who are perishing. To the one, we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that
brings life. And who is equal to such a task?”
I was challenged by a good friend and colleague recently about my leadership and the difference
between our immediate influence and the legacy we leave over a long period. His words
challenged my way of thinking. Rather than looking to the next best thing or comparing myself
to others, I would rather be where my feet are at and lead well there. Recently, my grandfather
passed, and I thought about the legacy he left: loyal, hard-working, a teacher, and wise. This
caused me to reflect on who I was and the legacy I am leaving with the people I encounter.
We are all leaving a legacy. When we walk out of a room, either we leave the aroma of Christ
that spreads the knowledge of Him everywhere (2 Corinthians 2:15-16), or we leave the less
pleasant smell of self-promotion. The most important thing we can do is to point people to the
One whose life matters the most—the Lord Jesus. A legacy of _________ will be the way you
people remember you.
Behaviors of a Christian Legacy Leader
Kingdom Minded: Inspire for the future; know where you want to take your organization. Have
a broader perspective than your immediate surroundings.
Faith Integration: Act authentically, lead by example, and connect with people emotionally.
Have a heart for serving others by empowering and uplifting them.
Biblical Wisdom: Recognize the importance of spiritual growth and development. Invest in the
spiritual well-being of themselves and others by mentoring and disciplining others around them.
We all lead in different ways through different traits and different means. Each person’s faith
journey is unique; find what works for you and trust that you will be the influence Christ wants
you to be.