I recently visited a delightful couple in their home to discuss estate planning. It’s my practice to begin by explaining that I am not there to tell them what they should do, but rather to find out what they would like to accomplish with their estate plan and that I am there to help them.
I asked Tom & Jean¹, “What is important to you?” As they shared with me, it became obvious that family was a priority, followed by helping those in need, whom Jesus put in their path.
Tom & Jean didn’t just tell me that helping others was important to them; they shared several stories that made it clear to me that this was a priority for them. They related stories of how they had helped people who needed financial help, or the many times they had invited strangers into their home for a meal or even offered a temporary place to stay. They were also involved in similar ministries with others in their own local Adventist church.
Jean got emotional at one point and said to me, “Pastor, we have a passion to help those who are struggling. They need help!” Then she said, “We just want to know, that after we are gone, we made a difference for Jesus.” I assured Tom & Jean that they were making a difference in people’s lives, and that they were following the instructions of Jesus: “For I was hungry, and you gave me food; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in; I was naked, and you clothed me,” (Matthew 25:35-36 NKJV).
I explained to them that with the help of an attorney, they could create an estate plan that would reflect their desire to benefit the two things they valued most: family and helping the neediest in their community. Later, with the help of our office, an estate attorney prepared for Tom & Jean a will that provides for their family and leaves a gift for their local church, for the purpose of helping those in need in their community.
Tom & Jean are making a difference in the lives of people now, and because of their generous gift, they will continue to make a difference even after they are gone. “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God,” (Hebrews 13:16 ESV).
Bill Ochs,
WI Conference Planned Giving Director
¹ Names have been changed for confidentiality.