Countertop Legacies

From the archives. Originally published February 26th 2019

    We are currently building a new home and, because we live in a state that frequently sees sub zero temperatures, we are putting a large emphasis on square footage. It isn’t a huge home but we wanted a decent sized play area for kids to run around inside when the “weather outside is frightful” and we can only last 10-20 minutes outdoors. That said picking finishes for our new home has essentially been based on expense. What is the most cost effective style and which color do I like best out of those three options? We figure we can upgrade finishes later if we so choose and, honestly, having less options has made the whole process easier.

     However our contractor happens to be a real stand up guy and has a great relationship with his subs that has helped us get real quality work at a rate more within our budget. Before I go further I should probably clarify that our contractor also happens to be my father and one of the hardest working men I have ever met. He is genuine and honest and wise and loves to help people out which means he has a trail of people eager to look out for him and his daughters. 

“Children are fortunate if they have a father who is honest and does what is right.” Proverbs 20:17

    I began really thinking about this the other day when my mom called to ask if I wanted a free countertop upgrade. To which my response was at first “What do you mean? I’m not sure I follow you.” It turns out it really was that simple. The man who has been working alongside my father for years just really wanted to bless us and was offering an upgrade at no additonal cost. Of course I said yes and tried my best to express gratitude with words and donuts on the date of installation but I know it wasn’t really about me. You see, this is far from the first door that has been opened to me largely based on my parents reputation and I’m sure it won’t be the last. It is pretty humbling for me to realize the privilege and opportunity I have specifically because of the family I was born into and their character and reputation.

    “A good man leaves an inheritance to his childrens children.” Proverbs 13:22

   The inheritance of moral stability, wise counsel and a positive reputation are things that benefit not only myself. They are passed down to my children as well from the home they live in to the stories  and counsel they will hear from their grandparents. They are truly blessed and my hope is that this reflection of legacy will not depart from me. That as I’m wiping crusty eggs and splattered pancake batter off my fancy new countertops I’ll not only be grateful for the legacy I received but also be intentional with the one I leave. Is the life I lead a legacy that opens or closes doors for my children? Am I giving them a good family name that will benefit them in the future?

     There is an old proverb that says “We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” and I love the quote for encouraging stewardship of the earth and believe the same could be said about our name. I am borrowing this name from my kids and want to establish a legacy of honor and kindness for them and I pray they wear it well too.

   On what, I believe, to be a very important tangent it also leads me in prayer for individuals who have not been as fortunate in legacies. Whose family names seem to constantly slam doors in their face. May we be a people who covers them in prayers and helps show them a Father whose name is nothing but Goodness and who knows all the right doors to open for them.

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