"Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good. It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.”
Psalm 127:1-5
In one week I turn 45 years old, which means that most likely I’m more than halfway through my life here on earth. Kinda grim (I know) but it’s true. This reality, coupled with the fact that I’m an active father to three amazing kids, makes me think a lot about the legacy that I will leave behind for my children.
I was raised by first-generation immigrants who taught me the value of hard work above all else, especially my father who is a U.S. Marine and Vietnam Vet: fight for what you believe, protect what’s yours, work hard and provide for your family. Now that I’m a dad, I’ve realized that this code has been hard-wired into my DNA—and so I’ve believed that my highest order is to work my butt off so that I can provide for my family. Beyond providing, as my girls become teenagers, I’ve been driven to feel I must protect them from any type of harm (physical, emotional, spiritual).
And what this Psalm has so beautifully reminded me is that I have actually spent too much time “toiling in vain” because often I am “building” and “standing watch” in my own strength. In the hustle-culture of NYC, I’m focused on my career, achievements, and finances—so that I can leave great things behind for my children. But what God is speaking to me through Psalms 127 is that he wants to partner directly with me in all of it. Not just my spiritual life, but in my personal life and my professional life. If I welcome him into these areas daily, and focus on him—versus focusing on my effort and my output—then he will make it easier.
As a result I’ll have more time to spend with my kids, and I can model a life built on faith and intimacy with God as the true cornerstone, which is the greatest legacy I can leave behind for my children.
Ps Franke Rodriguez
Oh Heavenly Father, thank you for the beautiful reminder that we are not meant to do anything on our own and without you. I invite you, daily, to partner with me as I build my house. Give me wisdom and vision to know how to best leave a legacy that glorifies you. Amen.
