"I believe the first test of a truly great man is his humility."  - JOHN RUSKIN

What kind of mark will you leave on this earth when you die?  Will you work your whole life trying to impress others with your wealth, possessions, and accolades?  Are you always looking to have your name up in lights?  Picture in the paper?  Maybe even a movie made about you?

There was a man in the 1800's who accomplished much in touching the lives of thousands of people.  To do so, you might draw the conclusion that he must have started out humble, caring, and compassionate for the needs of others above himself.  That was not the case.

His name was George Muller, an Englishman who lived from 1805-1898.  He was a liar as a youth.  He was a thief and he stole from his own family.  He led a very selfish life, concerned with his own pleasure, drinking and being thrown into prison for three weeks at the age of sixteen.  But, three years later, Muller attended a prayer meeting and his life was changed forever.

Seeing the needs of so many children who were left after their parents had worked themselves to death in the factories of the time, Muller established the first orphanage in England.  It took faith.  The kind of faith that does not stop moving, knowing God will provide for every need that arises.

Working among the poorest of people in Bristol, England, he was surrounded by orphans.  Kids were dying of stavation, living out on the streets.  His heart was filled with the compassion of Christ as he looked at these kids and knew he must help them.

Why did he do it?  Fame?  Fortune?  Recognition?  No!  He did it out of the love of Christ.  A love that filled his once sinful heart.  Muller left a mark on this earth that is still being felt.

What will you leave?  Maybe, if you looked in the mirror long enough, you might see Jesus looking back at you.  You may even have to stand there a while until you can look past your own reflection to see the reflection of Jesus?  Only then will you impart something of true value to those around you and leave an everlasting mark in this life and the next.

If a name is to be left ... let it be said "He trusted God and carried the name of Christ wherever he went."