Along with many others, we were eagerly counting down the days until the release of Hamilton: An American Musical on Disney+ last Friday. We were fortunate to see it in January 2019 when it came to Pittsburgh, and have listened to the soundtrack often. Even Wade has been known to sing along - "Not throwing away my shot!"
It was a joy to watch it on Friday afternoon, and take in the brilliance of the original cast. Watching the expressiveness of the actors and actresses really added depth and meaningful context to the already-powerful music and lyrics with which we have become so familiar.
Toward the end of the show, preparing for his infamous duel with Aaron Burr, Alexander Hamilton sings:
Legacy, what is a legacy?
It's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see
It was a common theme throughout the show - Who tells your story? What will people remember about you? Is your legacy something you can control? How do those who come after you continue what you've begun?
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| Photo by Neslihan Gunaydin on Unsplash |
The lyrics brought to mind the Apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 3:6 - "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth."
So much of the kingdom-work we do is precisely this: planting seeds, watering when we can, and trusting that God is at work to bring forth growth. We can't always see what's happening under the soil; so often the growth takes place without our knowledge. And yet, still we plant.
At the end of it all, who tells our story? Thanks be to God that the legacy that really matters is Christ's. Our good deeds cannot save us; the work we do or fail to do does not determine our worth in God's eyes. Through the waters of baptism we are joined to Christ's death and resurrection, and drawn into life with God. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we share the Good News of the Kingdom of God - not because we are desperate to be remembered, but because we are bursting with gratitude for all that God has done for us.
Who planted the seeds for you to hear and know the word of God? How have you witnessed God at work, bringing growth and flourishing?
Bonus resources:
- "The Gospel According to Hamilton" - sermons and reflections paired with each song on the Hamilton soundtrack, from Park Avenue Christian Church
- Thinking about leaving a legacy financially? The ELCA Foundation offers Regional Gift Planners who are available to help you make an impact on ministries and organizations with a gift plan that maximizes your estate-planning goals.
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