May Your Legacy Give Glory to God
When considering the Saints, it is easy to become captivated by the lasting legacy of their thoughts, words, and deeds. Consider St. Gianna Molla, whose heroism continues inspiring us through her courageous choice to protect her daughter’s life over her own. At St. Pier Giorgio Frassati’s funeral, thousands of Turin’s poor testified to his charitable love and service. These are thoughts of legacies that give glory to God. You can see that legacy is what remains after we are gone.
Above all, a plan for what to do with our wealth when we are gone is part of the idea of legacy. We call this legacy giving. Even though we can’t take it with us, we can use this legacy giving to give glory to God as well. Many people are unprepared to consider legacy giving in this way. There are many contributing factors that seem to be influencing this situation, but these factors usually do not include a lack of intention.
Most people want to leave a great legacy. Many are already giving – often very generously. But let’s face it: the topic of legacy giving can often be overwhelming and stressful. And because of the stress, legacy giving tactics can easily become uncoordinated and lack a clear strategy. There are so many ways to leave a legacy gift. With abundant options and competing interests, how can people make sense of it all? Likewise, with the different strategies and planning considerations, are there ways to address this topic that are easy to understand?
God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)
Thinking and planning for leaving a legacy is a great opportunity to get in touch with what matters most. Many begin their process of legacy giving by taking inventory of the guiding principles that have formed their unique identity. What makes your family unique? What makes you unique? Which people and which institutions have played a key role in shaping those values? Are there any common threads that are identifiable? Asking and answering these types of questions should be fun. This is an opportunity to give thanks and celebrate the handiwork of God. That’s because God was the one working through others. Working to form the irreplaceable values and identity that you have come to know and cherish.
Let your yes be yes, and no be no (Matthew 5:37)
Once people clearly define their values, many find it easier to use those values as guiding principles to steer their legacy giving over time. They can more easily determine who or what to include—or exclude—in a legacy gift.
Many people also build mechanisms into their plans to ensure they can restrict planned gifts if an organization no longer aligns with their values. These safeguards protect a legacy from scandal by ensuring it reflects the values of the individual or family.
Ask, and it will be given to you (Luke 11:5-13)
Once the values and guiding principles for a legacy are in place, many families and individuals turn to financial, legal, and tax professionals to ensure their plan is coordinated and designed to stand the test of time. There are considerations here that often need professional support. Likewise, when you clearly envision a legacy, skilled professionals can add detail and safeguards that enhance the plan’s unity and beauty, giving further glory to God.
Don’t start what you can’t finish (Luke 14:28)
Once a personalized and professionally developed plan is in place, many families and individuals find that following through on the plan flows in such a way that promotes peace and a sense of joy throughout the family. The intentionality of the plan likewise serves as a beacon to later generations. It’s a sign of what it means to be a member of the family. And it continues to fortify that identity over time. In this way, a family or individual can perpetuate a legacy that continues to witness to God’s glory in thought, word, and deed.
Consider leaving a legacy gift to Couple to Couple League. Go to CCL Legacy Giving for more information.
Written by Jason Staas. Originally published in CCL's Family Foundations magazine. Jason is a Nationally awarded financial professional in the USA and a pilot member of MDRT Global Services. Jason’s work in financial services has been characterized by fast traction, visionary leadership, and record-setting growth.