Waltham Watch Gears, 1904

Waltham Watch Face, 1904

Recently my Grandmother Butler stopped through Chicago on her way to MN.  She came bearing gifts for the kids and a small jewelry box for me.  Upon inspection, the box contained this pocket watch which she said had belonged to her grandfather Andrew F Skinner (b. 1851, d. 1947).  She didn't know how long he owned it, nor did she think that it worked, but she thought I might appreciate it in light of family history.  After a heart-felt expression of gratitude, I set it aside as we talked about other things.  The boys came by, picked it up, inspected it for a moment and wound the mechanism...and it ran!  Three days later, it is still running.

It made me contemplate what in my life can I hand down that will still work 100 years from now?  My first thought was something like "Not much..."

Then my wife reminded me of our vision for our family and our desire for cross generational faithfulness in service to Christ, love of the Father and life from the Spirit.  So that, even if nothing of our current earthly treasure survives the years, God's work--for His glory--will be a testimony to generations to come.

May this watch be a Ebenim that reminds me of what God has called me to for those who follow.

From Psalm 89

1 I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever;
         With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.
 2 For I have said, “Mercy shall be built up forever;
         Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens.”