No better time to take stock in life than at the close of one year and the launch of another. It’s an excellent time to reflect on past blessings (or challenges) and future hopes and dreams. That’s true if you are 29 or 79. Believe me, I know!

Mike Huckabee is a well-known figure in America. Having run for President twice, Mike has gained notoriety for his wit and insight. I have had the joy of knowing Mike for over 40 years and have watched his amazing influence. From media professional to seminary student, pastor to state governor, and candidate for President of the United States, he has hosted national radio and television programs. All the while, I have seen the same foundation and faith that was instilled in his life at an early age.

A few years ago, Mike and I were together at a ministry dinner, and I was reminded of how the Lord is using him to influence and impact lives. One of his books is titled Rare, Medium, or Done Well. In it, he reflects on how our past and present decisions and choices shape our lives for today and tomorrow. As a result, we influence others—for good or bad.

Huckabee points this out in a strong way in his book:

“Even though we don’t choose how we start life or how we end it, we most certainly choose how we live it.”

“The real legacy of life cannot be calculated by an army of accountants. The value of one’s life is seen in the character of those whose lives were touched, whether children, extended family members, or even strangers who benefited in some way from a person’s influence.”

George Herbert Walker Bush was the 41st President of the United States, serving one term from 1989 to 1993. He was defeated for a second term. But his influence was the result of the choices he made early in life to love people, serve his country, live a life of deep faith, and lead with both strength and compassion. At the same time, George H. W. Bush poured out unconditional love on his wife and children. His son, George W. Bush, who followed him a few years later as President, eulogized his dad at his funeral service and, through tears, concluded with these words to his father:

“We’re going to miss you. Your decency, sincerity, and kind soul will stay with us forever. So, through our tears, let us know the blessings of knowing and loving you, a great and noble man, the best father a son or daughter can have.”

Legacy. A life done well.

What are the foundational principles of your life? What are the choices you are making that will build up others and help them along life’s pathway? How are you modeling the principles you proclaim in ministry and life?

Today is a good day to reflect on past blessings…and even past mistakes. Yes, mistakes. Failures and mistakes are part of life. But they don’t have to define us. There is no leader in all of God’s Word who lived a perfect life…except Jesus. Yet, with the power of God’s Spirit, leaders like David, Moses, Paul, Peter, and many others left a legacy of influence that impacts our lives today. What impact will your life have?

In addition to leaving a powerful and positive legacy, also long for those words from our Heavenly Father…

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Happy New Year from your MEDIA Alliance family.

God’s best,