A Leader’s Legacy
After news broke of Steve Job’s death, over a million people from all over the world shared their memories, thoughts and feelings about him. One thing they all have in common is how they were touched by his passion and creativity.
On the other hand, the news reports on the death of Muammar Gaddafi contained scenes of jubilation and celebration. He is being remembered for oppression, terrorism and corruption.
As I’ve been reflecting on these lives, I realize that they both exchanged their one life for something. One dedicated his life to positive contributions. The other’s life resulted in destruction and chaos.
Of course, that challenges me to think about my own life….what’s my legacy going to be? (Does anyone else think about this stuff? Or, am I the only one?!?)
Thinking about legacy raises a core struggle of mine. I’m always wrestling with what it means to really be a marketplace minister. I’ve been raised in what Richard Foster, in Streams of Living Water: Celebrating the Great Traditions of Christian Faith, calls the Evangelical Stream. Practically, this means that I feel a need to talk to people about Jesus in order to fulfill the evangelistic call on my life.
However, a wise spiritual mentor of mine constantly challenges me with question, “Which speaks louder, your voice or your life?”
A Leader's Legacy
Of course, deep in my heart, I know it’s my life. That is why the book by Parker Palmer, Let your Life Speak, has a permanent place on my best-of-the-best book shelf.
So, I find it interesting that Jesus, as he’s sharing his last bit of wisdom before his arrest, states, “And, now I give you a new commandment: love one another.” (John 13:34)
And, what’s the result of our loving each other? In John 13:35 Jesus says, “If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples.” Everyone. If I’m reading this correctly, it means that when we love, serve, care for and encourage each other, everyone will know that we are Christ-followers.
As a Marketplace Minister, I try to share my gifts and talents with others in such a way that they will see how much I treasure the gift of love that God had given me when He sent his Son. By working every day on leaving a legacy of love, our lives as Marketplace Ministers will become the carrier of the Message of the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Marketplace Minister’s Question: What thought have you given to the legacy that you will leave for your children, colleagues and community?
Marketplace Minister’s Lesson: The passion that we put into our careers, how we raise our children and how we are involved in our community is part of spreading God’s message of love.
© Copyright 2011, Danita Bye Marketplace Ministers, All Rights Reserved.
Love, Life, Light Series: Daughter of the King
For those who’ve been following the Letters from the King: Reluctant Christian Ambassador series, I sent the final manuscript to the editor. A huge relief to have that step done!
This short Love, Life, Light poem is in celebration. See also Fully and Help Me To Hear, See, Feel.
Daughter of the King
Christian Business Women
I am a Daughter of the King, therefore-
I am called in love by the King
That I would love others freely in the King’s Name.
I am anointed by the King
That I would walk in the power, presence and purpose of the life-giving King,
That people would be healed and set free.
I am set apart by the King
That I may share the Light of Jesus Christ.
I am a Daughter of the King!
Marketplace Minister’s Question: Who’s are you? Where are the areas in your life where you need to realize that you are God’s well loved child?
Marketplace Minister’s Lesson: Knowing your identity is foundational to loving and caring for others in your sphere of influence.
As the book launches, I’ll have some new speaking topics. So, stay tuned.
© Copyright 2011, Danita Bye Marketplace Ministers, All Rights Reserved.
Love, Life, Light Series: Fully
Spirituality at Work
As I write this prayer as part of the Love, Life, Light Series, I’m returning from an international leadership conference. I’m encouraged that there are many around the world who are committed to the Good News of Jesus Christ. I met people from China, Nepal, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Israel, Egypt, South Africa, Mexico and Tanzania that confirm that the Gospel is spreading across the world like never before!
Lord,
Hep me to fully accept your love,
That I may fully love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, and
Love my neighbor as myself.
Help me to fully abide in your light,
That I may fully shine the Light of Jesus Christ to those around me.
Help me to fully experience your life,
That I may be a full vessel by which your life flows to others.
In the Name of Mighty Jesus!
Amen
Marketplace Minister’s Question: How is your living contributing to “It’s Happening In Our Lifetime…”?
Marketplace Minister’s Lesson: God is actively working on a global basis.
Often, we get trapped into a way of living that isn’t fulfilling. You might find this article of interest, Why I Burned My Navy Blue Suit.
© Copyright 2011, Danita Bye Marketplace Ministers, All Rights Reserved.
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About Danita
Bold and Refreshing
Danita has a special gift of igniting others into action. Her skill and experience, partnered with ministry insight, makes Danita a powerful marketplace minister! Her sharp precision cuts right to the heart of business matters – assisting others in breaking new ground for Kingdom Advancement!- Rhonda M. Kalal, President
MN Christian Chamber of Commerce
Connects in Conversation
"Danita delivered a powerful, insightful and thought-provoking talk that dramatically kicked off the new semester with great success. She is a polished, professional and prepared speaker, yet connects with her audience as if she were having a conversation with a good friend. Thank you, Danita!"- Heather Lam
Communications & Marketing Director
Moms In Step, Woodridge Church
Medina, Minnesota