January is Make Your Will month. Although this is one of the most procrastinated duties, it is of utmost importance. Ask anyone who has had to deal with a loved one’s estate, and you will typically hear one of two things. Either the experience was as pleasant as it could have been, or it was terrible.
What’s the difference? Planning. When everything is planned, no one has to guess who gets what. No one gets upset because the set of china they thought they were getting went to someone else. More importantly, when you make charitable gifts through your estate, those left behind can celebrate the legacy you leave for the Kingdom of God.
Will your church be able to enhance its ministry because of an estate gift you make? Will students be able to have scholarships? The list could go on. Proper planning and charitable giving can help to make your home going a celebration rather than a storm brewing.
Once we leave this earth, only memories of you will be left. How do you want to be remembered? How can you make a lasting impression, one that will glorify our Lord and Savior and tell the world that you love Him?
If you have a will, review it and make sure it still says what you want it to say. If you don’t have one, contact your attorney and begin the process. The Baptist Foundation can also assist you with estate planning. Make a list of all of your assets and liabilities, and where documents can be found.
Finally, write a letter to your loved ones. Remind them again of your love for them. That gift will be priceless. When you plan properly, those left behind will thank you for it, and when you leave a legacy of charitable giving, the Kingdom of God will be enhanced. Only when we get to heaven will we know the impact we had on this earth.
