An Old Horseshoe

I found an old horse shoe in a creek. When I find old treasures like this I can't help but wonder. What is the story behind this shoe? Who rode the horse? Where were they going? Or, did they arrive where they were supposed to? It's just an old horseshoe, but it once meant something to the rider and the horse.

My wife’s great-great grandfather was a Methodist circuit rider preacher. He rode where ever he was asked with one purpose, share the love of Jesus and the hope of the church. He lived near where this shoe was found. Was it his horse that once wore this shoe? Or another rider that spread the gospel? When I find such treasures my mind wonders to the one that first hammered it out. I wonder if he always wanted to be a farrier or blacksmith? Was he proud of his little family? I wonder if his son would stand in wonder watching his mountain of a man father hammering out the metal. Did he love his wife so much that when she came out to his shop he beamed from ear to ear with a great smile? Did he always stand with chest puffed out with pride for his beautiful daughter as she was always the smartest in the class?

It seems these days I am moving so fast that I forget to stop and wonder what I am leaving behind. Does my “horseshoe” point someone to Him? Do I inspire my son? Do I love my wife the way she needs? Am I proud of the “adopted” daughters God has allowed in my family’s life? Will someone once wonder about my legacy?

I know to some it is just a cool horseshoe, but to me it was a message from my loving Heavenly Father that day. He was reminding me to leave a legacy. The talented author, Al Ainsworth, has written multiple books and spoken all over the South about leaving a legacy. He said to me one day that it was the single most important thing a husband, father and friend could leave behind. As I walk through life and leave “horseshoes” behind I pray that Jesus will use me to make an impact. Not a “Billy Graham” type impact, but a small voice that helps those around me.

Michael