A recent study of two 18th-century men serves as a reminder that each life leaves a powerful legacy.

Consider Max Jukes, who lived in New York State. Max did not believe in Christian training and married a woman of like character. A study of more than 1,000 descendants from their union reveals that: 300 died prematurely, 100 were sent to prison for an average of 13 years, 190 were public prostitutes and 100 were drunkards. The Jukes family cost the state $1.2 million, and they made no demonstrable contribution to society.

Now consider another 18th-century man who also lived in New York State. This man was a devout Christian and married a woman of like mind. A study of 729 descendants from their union reveals that this family has produced: 300 preachers, 65 college professors, 13 university presidents, 60 noted authors, three United States Congressmen and one Vice President of the United States. This man's name? Jonathan Edwards, one of America's great theologians and preachers who helped lead the Great Awakening.

Each of our lives leaves a powerful legacy. The Bible says God will punish "the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation" but also show "Love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments" (Exodus 20:5,6).