[Perspective] Leaving a legacy

I will never forget the look on the face of the eighty-one-year-old man. He had such joy in showing us his library of commentaries, Bibles, and study books. Reverend Jose Nochea is a retired pastor and missionary in Dominican Republic. I had the privilege to hear the story of he and his wife, Dulce, while I was on a mission trip in April of this year. 

As we sat in their living room, we enjoyed the hospitality of Dominican coffee, which was rich and delicious. They both told the story of growing up as children in Cuba and the difficulty in fleeing that country. They spoke of fear and anxiety of moving away. Pastor Jose spoke of their desire to follow God wherever he led them regardless of the turmoil and hardship. He spoke of the move to Dominican Republic to do mission work and plant churches.  

As they continued to share their story, I was struck by their perseverance. Church planting is tough, but to do it in a new culture adds to the stress. I listened intently to their story about starting a new church in Santiago because I had the opportunity to preach in that same church during Sunday worship. The church is currently without a pastor, but they had a great group of volunteers leading worship and the ministries of the church. The atmosphere was friendly, and they made me feel welcomed and at home. Although I could not speak the language or read the words on the screen, it was a joy to worship. The building was almost full of over sixty people.  

I learned the steadfast spirit of the church is a direct result of the foundation laid by Pastor Jose. He is a very respected pastor in the area. The experience of the church’s worship and hearing the story of Pastor Jose and his wife left no doubt in my mind that this church would survive and flourish in their community. Whenever I am introduced to individuals that have laid a foundation and created a history of ministry, I always have a great sense of appreciation and awe at their work. The legacy of Jose and Dulce Noche and their ministry should be remembered and honored.  

I cannot help but think of the passage in Hebrews 12:1, which speaks to the very life legacy of these two saints. Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. 

Pastor Jose led us to a building out behind their house. This one-room building was his study. Although suffering from a recent broken hip, he would still go spend time reading and studying every day. One of the special moments of our visit occurred as we stood in his study. Jose took one of the worn Bibles from the shelf. He opened the pages and wanted to read a passage to us. Through our interpreter, he instructed us to listen carefully as he read Psalms 91:14-16. “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” As Pastor Jose read to us, he wanted to repeat the last verse and spoke with an intense exhortation – with a long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation. After reading, he laid the Bible down and looked at us saying, “may God bless you in your ministry as He has blessed me, AMEN.” 

I want to tell you as a pastor, I have never felt more encouraged and honored than at that moment. A highly regarded man of God exhorting us to keep persevering. His legacy has impacted so many over his years of service and he still proclaims the Gospel. I was also strengthened by his words and stories. Remember the people in your life that have guided and molded you. Honor their legacy by staying true to your calling. I hope one day people will have a similar perspective of my life and legacy. 

Matthew 5:12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.