Thursday; July 19

The Old Testament book of Judges has a lot of odd stories – but one I shake my head at is the story of Abimelech.  In this chronology of faith and deliverers, Abimelech is neither.  This usurper translated his father’s popularity into his own opportunity for power.  Abimelech was a vile and vicious man who was willing to do whatever it took (including mass familicide) to get his way.  While the story of Abimelech is really strange, one of the oddest things comes near the end when the ruler “gets his own”.  The evil man’s life comes to an end when a woman drops a millstone on his head in what he determines to be a potentially fatal blow.  Rather than making amends for his life he called his armor bearer to his side and said, “Draw your sword and kill me, so that it will not be said of me, ‘A woman slew him.’” (Judges 9:54)  Here was a man whose legacy would be filled with godlessness, murder and corruption, but he was more concerned about the fact a woman’s actions contributed to his death.  That is superficial – and probably speaks volumes about his character.
As I thought about this story I got to wondering about our concerns for our legacy.  Are we more focused on the news we make or the difference we make?  Do we spend more time and energy making money for our children or making memories with them?  Are we more interested in creating our lifestyle façade or protecting our reputation? 
Abimelech’s focus left Israel in chaos.  When we have finished our journey will the people around us be better or worse because of our influence.  THAT will be the true legacy we leave.
          Think About It!

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