Personal Growth & Self-Improvement – cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:52:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Christian Movies In Theaters 2025 https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/11/05/christian-movies-in-theaters-2025/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/11/05/christian-movies-in-theaters-2025/#respond Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:52:47 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/11/05/christian-movies-in-theaters-2025/

Here are some of the christian movies coming to theaters in 2025! Looking for faith-filled inspiration on the big screen? 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Christian cinema, with new releases that bring powerful stories of faith, hope, and perseverance to theaters. From heartwarming dramas to action-packed biblical epics, these films offer unique perspectives on the Christian experience and convey messages that inspire audiences of all ages. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated Christian movies coming to theaters in 2025!

  1. The Unbreakable Boy

Austin is not just one in a million… he’s one in four billion – the odds of being born with both a rare brittle-bone disease and autism. But what makes Austin truly unique is his joyous, funny, life-affirming worldview that transforms and unites everyone around him – especially his dad, Scott (Zachary Levi), who comes to see Austin not as the symbol of something broken, but the triumph of an indestructible spirit. To meet Austin is to know that being “unbreakable” is not about physical strength, but the inner strength that comes from embracing love and grace, even in the most trying times. The Unbreakable Boy is an inspirational true story from Kingdom Story Company and the producers of Wonder.

2. Between Borders

In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family finds themselves as outcasts—wherever they go. Their Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination, first in their home country of Azerbaijan and then in Russia. After finding their eternal hope through a church planted by American missionaries, the hostility of everyday life pushes them to seek refuge in the United States. In the shadow of exile, hope became their home. Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression, BETWEEN BORDERS is only in theaters January 26-28, 2025.

3. Brave The Dark

When Mr. Deen discovers that Nate, one of his students, is living out of his car and now is in jail, he decides to bail him out. Determined to help Nate curb his self-destructive behavior, Mr. Deen quickly discovers a host of dark secrets tearing Nate apart. What started as a good deed becomes a desperate fight to save Nate from his demons. Mr. Deen must decide how far he’s willing to go to save a kid on the brink of losing everything—including himself.

4. Light Of The World

It’s 30 AD and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and others begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautifully animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!

5. David

There is no better story of faith and courage than that of David, who not only defeated a giant as a shepherd boy but also inspired a nation as king. David’s life was filled with adventure and purpose, fully living out a meaningful relationship with God. DAVID is an animated feature film that combines powerful biblical authenticity, inspired music, captivating storytelling, and superb production quality.

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Reagan Movie https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/reagan-movie/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/reagan-movie/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 14:37:05 +0000 https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/reagan-movie/

From dusty small-town roots, to the glitter of Hollywood, and then on to commanding the world stage, REAGAN is a cinematic journey of overcoming the odds. Told through the voice of Viktor Petrovich, a former KGB agent who followed Reagan’s ascent, REAGAN captures the indomitable spirit of the American dream. Starring Dennis Quaid, prepare to be moved and inspired as REAGAN comes to life on August 30, 2024.



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Best Christian Movies On Netflix 2024 https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-netflix-2024/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-netflix-2024/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 13:33:10 +0000 https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-netflix-2024/

In a world where streaming platforms offer an endless array of choices, finding quality Christian movies that resonate with both faith and entertainment can be a rewarding journey. Netflix, known for its diverse content, continues to curate a selection of films that cater to those seeking uplifting stories rooted in faith. As we navigate through 2024, let’s explore some of the best Christian movies currently gracing Netflix. From compelling dramas to inspiring true stories, these films not only entertain but also offer moments of reflection and spiritual growth. Whether you’re looking for heartfelt narratives or powerful messages of hope, Netflix’s lineup of Christian movies promises to deliver meaningful experiences that uplift the soul. Join me as we discover the top picks that embody faith, resilience, and the enduring power of belief.

1. A Week Away

    “A Week Away” proves intriguing. The story follows troubled teenager Will, who is sent to a summer camp as a last resort to turn his life around. At the camp, Will discovers friendship, a father figure, and a romantic interest named Avery. While the film has Christian themes and influences, it isn’t overly preachy. The reworked Christian pop song arrangements generally fit well within the context. Overall, “A Week Away” is a decent watch for families.

      2. Blue Miracle

      Blue Miracle on Netflix tells the true story of Casa Hogar, a Mexican boys’ home that entered the world’s biggest fishing tournament to save their orphanage. While technically a faith-based film, it emphasizes human drama and character dynamics over preachiness. The strong connections between characters, particularly between Dennis Quaid’s character and the orphanage director played by Jimmy Gonzalez, add depth to the narrative. Exciting and suspenseful fishing sequences enhance the film’s appeal, while the emotional journey of the orphaned children provides heartfelt sincerity. Despite potential preconceptions about faith-based movies, Blue Miracle is an uplifting underdog story that reminds viewers that hope and triumph are possible for the little guys.

      3. Jesus Revolution

      “Jesus Revolution” is an upcoming movie based on the true story of the Jesus movement that emerged in Southern California in the 1960s. The film delves into the origin of Chuck Smith and Calvary Chapel, highlighting the rise of the Jesus movement and the influential figure of Lonnie Frisbee. It also touches on Greg Laurie’s journey, who later became a prominent pastor and founder of the Harvest Crusade.

      Chuck Smith, portrayed by Kelsey Grammer, is a traditional pastor who invites the unconventional Lonnie Frisbee, played by Jonathan Roumie, to his dwindling church. Frisbee’s hippie-influenced approach sparks a revival, leading to the growth of the Jesus movement. The film features Greg Laurie and his wife Kathy, who become integral to the movement. Aiming for authenticity, the movie avoids the preachy tone of many faith-based films, exploring the flaws and struggles of its main characters for a more realistic and relatable story. Even non-religious viewers may find it enjoyable, as it focuses more on the narrative and characters than overt religious messaging.

      4. I Can Only Imagine

      The 2018 inspirational film “I Can Only Imagine” is based on the true story of Christian singer-songwriter Bart Millard. It follows Bart’s challenging upbringing with an abusive father, played by Dennis Quaid, and his journey to finding his voice and writing the hit song “I Can Only Imagine.” Despite its Christian themes, the film is enjoyable for non-religious viewers as a well-made, feel-good movie about overcoming adversity. The performances, particularly by J. Michael Finley as Bart, are praised for their emotional impact. While not a groundbreaking cinematic achievement, “I Can Only Imagine” is a solid, motivational biopic worth watching for fans of inspirational true stories.

      5. The Hill

      “The Hill” is a film that is poised to join the ranks of iconic inspirational sports films like “Rocky,” “Rudy,” and “Remember the Titans.” Based on the true story of Ricky Hill, the movie chronicles the young baseball player’s journey as he overcomes significant health challenges and lack of support to pursue his dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player. The film is divided into two halves, depicting Ricky’s struggles with discrimination and skepticism due to his physical disabilities during his childhood, and his perseverance and talent in his teenage and adult years. Colin Ford delivers a standout performance as the adult Ricky, while Sienna captivates as his childhood friend Gracie, whose unwavering support is central to the story. The film’s themes of never giving up, the power of dreams and encouragement, and the importance of a strong support system resonate deeply. The score and baseball scenes effectively evoke emotion and excitement, making “The Hill” a “true feel-good story” that will leave audiences refreshed, motivated, and rejuvenated.

      Netflix remains a valuable resource for discovering and enjoying a variety of Christian movies that inspire and uplift. Whether you’re drawn to stories of faith overcoming adversity, heartfelt dramas exploring human spirit, or true-life narratives of redemption, Netflix’s collection offers something for everyone seeking meaningful entertainment. As we continue through 2024, these films not only entertain but also provide moments of reflection and encouragement, reminding us of the enduring power of faith and the potential for positive transformation in our lives. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these cinematic journeys on Netflix inspire and uplift your spirit.



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Best Christian Movies On Prime https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-prime/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-prime/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 12:02:33 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/best-christian-movies-on-prime/

Looking for inspirational and uplifting films to watch on Amazon Prime? Best Christian movies on Prime list of the best Christian movies on Prime offers a diverse selection of faith-based films that will inspire, encourage, and entertain. From heartwarming dramas and powerful true stories to thought-provoking documentaries, these movies explore themes of faith, hope, love, and redemption. Whether you’re seeking a movie for family night, a personal pick-me-up, or a deeper spiritual experience, these top Christian films on Prime are sure to resonate with viewers of all ages. Dive into our curated list and discover your next favorite film!

1. Unsung Hero

The film delivers a compelling message about perseverance and the importance of seeking help during tough times. Central to this narrative is the mother character, whose performance is widely recognized as the “heart and soul” of the story. Her portrayal is touching and authentic, adding depth and emotional resonance.

One of the film’s most uplifting aspects is its ability to restore faith in God. It does this by depicting numerous acts of generosity and kindness from strangers, reminding us of the innate goodness of God that can be found though people. These moments of connection are both heartwarming and inspirational.

Additionally, the film cleverly highlights the cultural differences and language barriers between Australia and the U.S. These elements are presented with a sense of humor, providing lighthearted moments that balance the more serious themes.

However, there are some areas where the film could improve. The pacing, particularly at the beginning, tends to be slow and dragging, which might test the patience of some viewers. Moreover, while the acting is generally strong, the performance by the father character, who is not a professional actor, lacks polish.

Overall, the film is an enjoyable and relatable watch, especially for those familiar with the challenges of starting anew in a foreign country. Its inspiring message and the standout performance of the mother character make it a memorable experience.

2. I Still Believe

“I Still Believe” is an upcoming Christian movie from the directors of “I Can Only Imagine.” The story centers on a Christian singer aspiring to make it big while navigating challenges with the love of his life. The chemistry between the lead actors is a highlight, bringing their romantic moments to life beautifully.

The narrative takes a deeply emotional turn towards the end, touching viewers profoundly. One particularly moving scene between the main character and his father brought tears to the reviewer’s eyes, underscoring the film’s powerful emotional impact.

Be prepared for an emotional journey, as the film delves into themes of love, loss, and perseverance. For those who enjoyed “I Can Only Imagine,” this new release offers a similarly touching experience, even if it doesn’t quite reach the same level of acclaim.

3. Breakthrough

When Joyce Smith’s son John falls through an icy lake, all hope seems lost. But as John lies lifeless, Joyce refuses to give up, and her steadfast belief inspires those around her to pray for his recovery. Based on the incredible true story of one mother’s unwavering devotion, Breakthrough is an enthralling reminder that faith and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle.

4. War Room

“War Room,” a film by the Kendrick brothers, tells the story of Tony and Elizabeth, a couple facing marital difficulties. Elizabeth meets Miss Clara, an older African-American woman who introduces her to the concept of a “prayer closet.” Initially hesitant, Elizabeth learns the value of prayer in her life and begins to see positive changes in her marriage as she starts to hear from God. Miss Clara emphasizes that one’s prayer life should be “hot” rather than “room temperature.” This story encourages viewers to examine their own approach to prayer.

5. Paul, Apostle Of Christ

“Paul, Apostle of Christ,” starring Jim Caviezel, tells the gripping story of Luke, who secretly enters Rome to document the accounts of Paul, imprisoned and awaiting execution under the Roman Emperor’s persecution of Christians. During this perilous mission, Luke is also imprisoned by the warden, and together they must navigate their survival. The film, described as a “biblical epic,” features thrilling second and third acts, while the first act sets the stage with necessary background information. Aimed at an audience slightly younger than teenagers, the movie addresses serious themes of Christian persecution without any offensive content. The film underscores themes of redemption and the transformative power of God’s love, encapsulated in the quote, “where sin abounds, grace abounds more.

6. Jesus Revolution

“Jesus Revolution” is a film based on the true story of the Jesus movement that emerged in the 1960s. The story centers on the relationship between Chuck Smith, a traditional pastor striving to revive his struggling congregation, and Lonnie Frisbee, a charismatic hippie who introduces a fresh, love-centered message of Christianity.

The film also follows Greg Laurie, who becomes involved in the counterculture lifestyle before finding his way to Calvary Chapel and rising as a prominent evangelical figure.

Praised for its authenticity, the movie avoids the heavy-handed preachiness typical of many faith-based films. The reviewer, with a Christian background and familiarity with the real-life figures, believes the movie will resonate with non-religious viewers due to its focus on the transformative power of faith and community rather than explicit evangelism.

Overall, “Jesus Revolution” is depicted as a well-crafted, nuanced portrayal of a pivotal moment in modern American Christianity, capturing the spirit of the original Jesus movement.

Amazon Prime offers a rich selection of Christian movies that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for heartfelt dramas, inspiring true stories, or insightful documentaries, there’s something for everyone. These films not only provide quality entertainment but also reinforce values of faith, hope, and love. So, take some time to explore these top Christian movies on Prime and find the perfect film to uplift and inspire you. Happy watching!



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The Story Of Possum Trot  https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-story-of-possum-trot/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-story-of-possum-trot/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:01:57 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-story-of-possum-trot/

The battle for the well-being of children starts today. Inspired by an extraordinary true story, “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” chronicles the incredible journey of Donna and Reverend Martin. Their unwavering commitment ignited a passion within their small rural church, urging the congregation to open their hearts and homes to children in the foster system who had been overlooked and abandoned.

Against all odds, this dedicated couple led their East Texas community to accomplish what many deemed impossible: they adopted 77 children. Through sheer determination and boundless love, Donna, Reverend Martin, and their fellow church members demonstrated that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome when a community unites with a shared purpose.

“Sound of Hope” is a testament to the power of compassion and the profound impact that one small town can have on the lives of the nation’s most vulnerable children. This heartwarming and inspiring story reminds us that with genuine love and commitment, we can make a significant difference in the world, one child at a time.



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Christians Hesitate To Engage With Culture And The Ballot Box https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/christians-hesitate-to-engage-with-culture-and-the-ballot-box/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/christians-hesitate-to-engage-with-culture-and-the-ballot-box/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 08:39:56 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/christians-hesitate-to-engage-with-culture-and-the-ballot-box/

The Institute for Faith and Culture (IFC) announced today the results of a new study it commissioned with Lifeway Research. According to the survey–which was based on the response of 1,000 U.S Evangelical Christians from July 18-August 2, 2024–the majority of respondents agreed on seeing the world through the lens of scripture. But when it came to putting their beliefs into action, such as voting for candidates with a Biblical worldview, a majority chose to stay on the sidelines.

“The study showed it’s pretty easy to say you want a culture that has the Bible as its foundation,” said Dr. Rob Pacienza, President and Founder of IFC and CEO and President of Coral Ridge Ministries. “However, a truly thriving culture is one where its citizens actually take action to ensure it.” 

An overwhelming majority (93%) of respondents say it is important to interpret things seen and heard in the world through what scripture says, and 87 percent believe the Bible speaks to modern issues. If 76 percent in the survey say that God is concerned if and how they vote, then why has it been reported that more than 40 million Christians, who are eligible to vote, have not registered? 
 
“The battles being fought today are predominantly spiritual,” said Lauren Cooley, Executive Director of the Institute for Faith and Culture. “The leaders of today’s churches have a responsibility to provide a deeper understanding of scripture. Our society fails when all we do is expect fair-weather Christianity. The Bible has served as a how-to guide for millions of citizens over the centuries. We can’t stop relying on it now.”
 
The Lifeway Research survey (https://institutefc.org/research/) provided a variety of other enlightening insights:

  • 50% of respondents said the Bible helped them form opinions on solutions to society’s problems while 17% favored their personalities and influencers.
     
  • 52% said the Bible was the primary influence for personal decisions, followed by 19% who listed personalities and influencers.
     
  • 92% say Christians have the responsibility to share truths from God’s Word with people who hold different views and 75% want to speak up when talking with someone who says something that doesn’t align with Scripture. 
     
  • 53% say they rarely have opportunities to engage in conversations with people who disagree with the Bible, and just 35% say they are ready for most opportunities to share what the Bible says about cultural and hot button issues, and only 38% say they sometimes seek opportunities to promote the Bible’s perspective on topics knowing they are not popular.

The Institute for Faith and Culture is also proud to work in strategic partnership with Vote Your Faith, a non-partisan, 501(c)3 organization that helps Christians connect their biblical values to their civic duty by mobilizing and registering Christians to vote in accordance with their faith. (votefaith.org).

About the Institute for Faith and Culture 
The Institute for Faith and Culture exists to equip Christians for this cultural moment to be salt and light in their sphere of influence, through curation of Biblical worldview resources, practical training, and by connecting the body of Christ for the advancement of the Kingdom.

SOURCE Institute for Faith and Culture



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Who Is Jesus To You? https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/who-is-jesus-to-you/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/who-is-jesus-to-you/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 08:39:46 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/who-is-jesus-to-you/

What is your relationship with Jesus like? Are you at the beginning of your relationship and walking with Jesus, infatuated with everything Christian? Have you been walking with Jesus for a while and feel disappointed because your expectations have not been met? Or are you at the point, like the Apostle Paul, where you consider every single thing as a loss in comparison to the excellence of knowing Christ? Regardless of where you are in your relationship with Jesus and your journey in the Christian faith, rest assured that you’re not alone. Even the disciples of Jesus had their own ups and downs in their relationship with Him. Consider Peter, for example, from being bold enough to proclaim that Jesus is the Messiah when Jesus asked, “Who do you think that I am?” to literally attempting to rebuke Jesus and earning a rebuke in return when Jesus tells him to “Back off, Satan.” in Mark 8 

But the amazing thing about our Lord and Savior is that He does not leave us in tension and rebuke, just like we see with Peter when He tells them that some standing there in Mark chapter 8 will not taste death until they see the kingdom of heaven coming in power. Then, after six days, He takes Peter, John, and James up a mountain, where He pulls His humanity aside, and they are able to see Him as God. This is where He is transfigured before them, speaking with Elijah and Moses while the disciples are terrified, holding onto the ground. Then Peter, bold as ever, attempting to memorialize this very moment, tells Jesus that it’s good for them to stay there and that he will make three different tents: one for Elijah, one for Moses, and one for Jesus. But God covers everyone with a cloud and tells them to listen to Jesus. In this message, Pastor Slavic explores what it means to follow Jesus while dying to our own expectations and embracing Jesus for who He is: God incarnate, and not just a teacher or just a man.

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The Movie White Bird Is Worth Seeing https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-movie-white-bird-is-worth-seeing/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-movie-white-bird-is-worth-seeing/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 08:37:34 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/the-movie-white-bird-is-worth-seeing/

Over the weekend, I went to see a little-known movie called White Bird. I don’t remember seeing much marketing for this specific film, but I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful the storyline was and the overall cinematography. I would definitely encourage everyone to go see it. It’s one of those movies that stays with you and makes you think. The story is about kindness and humanistic undertones. However, I would also say that this movie has a Christian undertone, as kindness is one of the fruits of the Spirit. The famous line in this movie is that kindness doesn’t cost you anything unless it costs you everything.

Without giving too much away, the story is set during World War II and depicts how neighbors helped hide Jewish people from the Nazis. It chronicles the efforts associated with saving lives through kindness and caring for them for long periods by hiding Jewish individuals in attics and barns. The main point of the story revolves around two teenagers who know each other from school but did not really hang out in the same circles. Yet, during the time of persecution, they learn the true cost of being kind to one another.

Some may say that this type of story is overdone, almost cliché; however, I think that this film is a beautifully told narrative that encourages us to be kinder to each other in the face of adversity and even in good times. It conveys the famous line, “Be more kind,” and presents a necessary reminder for everyone to find some form of kindness in the midst of battles, giving the phrase a whole new meaning—one worth exploring.

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CONCLAVE https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/conclave/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/conclave/#respond Sat, 26 Oct 2024 07:16:42 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/10/26/conclave/

The movie CONCLAVE seems promising, a thriller about the selection of the next pope. While I do not believe that the Roman Catholic Church is in any way perfect or the true church of Jesus, I think this movie is fascinating for a few different reasons.

One of the best reasons is that it shows that even in a place where every single man has spent decades of his life, the thirst for power is universal, despite their motives of walking in humility and consecration.

The second reason is that it gives an inside look into an otherwise very secretive process, helping theology students understand more about the inner workings of the Roman Catholic Church.

Finally, another reason to watch this movie is to gain a better understanding of discerning the truth and not relying on the argument from authority, but rather trusting scripture and not just people who claim to be God’s representatives.

About The Movie: The pope is dead. The throne is vacant. CONCLAVE is only in theaters this October 25, starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini. Watch the trailer now.

From director Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front), CONCLAVE follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events – selecting the new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with running this covert process after the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. Once the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world and are locked together in the Vatican halls, Lawrence uncovers a trail of deep secrets left in the dead Pope’s wake, secrets which could shake the foundations of the Church.

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How To Make A Difference And Leave A Legacy https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/09/09/how-to-make-a-difference-and-leave-a-legacy/ https://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/09/09/how-to-make-a-difference-and-leave-a-legacy/#respond Mon, 09 Sep 2024 06:06:52 +0000 http://cadenacontinentaldenoticias.com/2024/09/09/how-to-make-a-difference-and-leave-a-legacy/

So how to make a difference and leave a legacy? Ask yourself this question, “What kind of legacy will you leave behind? What you invest in makes all the difference?”

A night at the hospital that made me rethink how I think about life

A couple of years ago, I spent a few nights in the hospital with a friend who was undergoing surgery. Working during the day and spending the nights at the hospital was not easy, and all I wanted to do was get some sleep. But of course, the hospital is not exactly a place where anyone can get much rest. On one of those nights, I fell asleep on a chair, which seemed designed to inflict maximum discomfort, but I figured some sleep is better than no sleep, so I didn’t mind. In the middle of the night, however, I woke up from the agonizing cries of a patient.

The noise came through the open door from the hallway. I tried to go back to sleep, but the sobbing got more intense; it had a way of penetrating me to the core. I finally gave up trying to fall asleep and sat up. Frustrated and a bit annoyed, I decided to investigate and walked out of the room, into the hallway.

By this time, I realized which room the noise was coming from, and I slowly tiptoed my way to the entrance of that room. I peeked inside to see what was going on and suddenly realized the magnitude of the situation. In that room, I saw a very old grandma looking up in agonizing pain, holding her son’s hand and groaning. I did not want to be rude by staring at them, but I could not help myself. I stared, unable to move, thinking they were oblivious to me standing there.

The moment I realized how fragile life is

As I watched this scene unfold, I suddenly realized that this lady was dying. Her time was running out. It was at that moment, by some divine intervention, I had an epiphany. I realized that this little old lady, like me, was once young with hopes and dreams. However, now, like the sand in an hourglass, the minutes of her life were slipping away. I was finally able to pull myself together and walk away from this scene. Needless to say, I could not fall asleep the rest of the night. The next day, when I returned to the hospital, I could not wait to walk by that room again and see what had happened. However, when I finally arrived at the room and peeked in, the bed was empty, and the blanket was neatly folded.

I think about that night a lot; it’s a constant reminder for me that I have an expiration date. It is not a matter of if we expire, but when? Someday I will inevitably be in the same position with my life slipping away, and I will wonder about how I spent my time. Did I leave a great legacy? And what now? It is so easy to forget that life is fleeting quickly. Just like the lilies of the valleys, we bloom, and then we dry up. We are like vapor dissipating in the air. We are here; then we are gone. In light of that, how can we waste the most precious resources on things that are utterly meaningless? Because the most precious resource we have is time. We can waste it, spend it, or invest it.

Link to the song

All the things we have will one day be destroyed
Unfortunately, many of us spend our precious time working to buy things that will someday rust in the junkyard or be passed onto someone else. Of course, buying new stuff adds excitement to our lives, but soon we get bored and move on, wanting something else which requires more of our money, which is our time. Regardless of this disappointing cycle, we still waste our money on things that don’t last or deliver on the satisfaction promised. So we continue the cycle, thinking that we need more of the stuff that just failed at bringing us joy. We ignore the questions of what brings joy. Where should we invest our time? May I suggest investing your time into two categories? First, invest your time in a relationship with God. Second, invest your time into relationships with other people.

Invest in a relationship with God.
We can spend our lives pursuing so many things, but the bottom line is that every pursuit of temporary satisfaction is sure to disappoint in light of eternity. Humans crave to understand the supernatural, which is why religion is part of almost every culture. Blaise Pascal wrote, “What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace?

This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself.“ So anchor the hope of your life in God, who transcends the temporary, and you will have hope that is indefinite. If we fail to establish a relationship with God on this side of eternity, then ultimately for us, it does not matter what we were right about!

Invest in a relationship with people you encounter every day.
To leave a great legacy, one must first have something to leave behind. If we are hollow and empty men, then what can we leave for others? In the country song, Three Wooden Crosses, Randy Travis tells the story of four strangers riding in a bus when the bus collides with an eighteen-wheeler semi-truck. Three of them die; leaving only one who survives the horrible accident, a hooker. Randy Travis is challenging the audience to think about what they will leave behind when their time comes. He sings:

“That farmer left a harvest, a home, and eighty acres,
The faith and love for growing things in his young son’s heart
That teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children:
Did she best to give them all a better start
That preacher whispered, “Can’t you see the Promised Land?”
As he laid his blood-stained Bible in that hooker’s hand
He concludes his song with:
It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you,
It’s what you leave behind you when you go”

Consequently, what will you leave behind? Will it be something temporary or something eternally valuable? How you use your time and where you choose to invest it will determine that. So I conclude, invest your time in people. They are the only investment that lasts for eternity.

Invest in a great relationship with your family.
People may come and go, but the family will be there for your whole life. There is a connection through the family that can never be erased. Maybe you think that your family is somewhat dysfunctional; most of them are. This is because families are made up of imperfect people with imperfect lives.

But this is the environment where we first learn how to grow. Within this predisposed environment, we have to choose if we are going to become bitter or better. It is here that we first learn how to love one another, even when you do not like each other. If your family is broken, you do not have to continue the cycle of brokenness. You have a choice to continue the blessings or spread the curses. You can change the direction of your family by investing your time, therefore, leaving a great example for generations to come.

Invest in great friendships.
Today with the social media infatuation, our friendships tend to be a mile wide and an inch deep. We have many acquaintances and very few genuine friendships. True friendship is to put others before yourself. In John 15:13 says that “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” That means that real friendship is sacrificial. Jesus died for the blind, the lame, the prideful, and the arrogant.

Not only did He care for the broken, but He also restored them and called them His friends. Furthermore, He also called us friends. Surely we can love those around us, even the ones we don’t like. Some of the people I strongly disliked a few years ago are now some of my closest friends. So seek out and invest your time in genuine and Godly friendships; they will mold you and challenge you; they will make your sorrows easier to bear, and your joys more exciting.

Invest in people you don’t like!
There is a saying that says, “we should be kinder than necessary because everyone we meet is fighting some battle.” We can conclude that this is true because not everybody knows your battles; so extend that kindness to everyone you encounter. Go even further and do random acts of kindness. So pay that undeserving waitress a big tip because you do not know what kind of day she had. Take that homeless man out to lunch.

Be nice and encouraging to your coworker when you do not have to. Laugh a lot, and smile even more. You never know which one of the strangers you meet will become your friends. But even if the people you meet won’t ever see you again, still go that extra mile and take that extra step; for in doing so, you might be impacting eternity without even knowing it.

Finally, in a hundred years from now, what will they say about you? What kind of legacy will you leave behind? Did you bless thousands or even millions? Or did you continue the cycle of brokenness? Even more important in a hundred years from now, where will you be? Want it or not, our expiration date is coming at the speed of sixty minutes an hour.



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