During a recent operation deep in the jungles of Central America, I stumbled upon a ranch with a history dating back to the early Spanish colonization of the region. Amidst the rugged landscape and dense foliage, one particular sight left a lasting impression on me—a framed photo hanging on an exterior wall of the main building.
The photo depicted a sharply dressed man, laid out in a bed inside the very building where I stood, as if peacefully asleep... yet the man was dead, the photo post-mortem. His fine clothing and new boots stood in stark contrast to the harsh realities of the jungle, where survival is a daily struggle against nature's relentless forces.
As I pondered the life and legacy of this unknown man, I couldn't help but wonder: What had he lived for? Was his wealth and status his only legacy, now forgotten amidst the ruins of his ranch? Had all his efforts and toils been in vain?
Facing the same extreme challenges that once bested this great man, I realized that the jungle still held sway over us. It tested us, it pushed us to our limits, and it reminded us of our mortality. Yet, amidst the uncertainty and adversity, there was one constant—a symbol of hope and purpose: the cross in the background of the photo.
In that moment, I was reminded of why I was there. I was reminded that my purpose transcended the temporal struggles of this world. With the light of eternity in mind, I pressed on with renewed determination and clarity of purpose.
For me, this journey is not just about survival—it's about living with intention, guided by a higher calling. It's about making choices that align with God's plan, not just my own desires. And it's about leaving a legacy that extends far beyond my own existence—a legacy rooted in faith, purpose, and service to others.
As I set my goals and face the challenges ahead, I do so with the knowledge that my actions have the power to shape the world long after I'm gone. For in the end, it's not the fleeting achievements or material possessions that matter—it's the impact we leave on the lives of others and the legacy of love and faith that endures for eternity.
