By Jon Dize, CFRE
Director of Development
August is National Write a Will Month, a gentle and timely reminder for us, especially those in our later years, to pause, reflect, and prepare. As we age, planning for the future becomes increasingly important. While conversations surrounding legal documents, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, can feel difficult, they help us care for our families, honor our wishes, and trust God with both our present and our future.
Scripture reminds us, “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” (Luke 14:28). Planning is a wise and faithful step. It is not about fear but about preparation and peace.
Will: Sharing Your Blessings
A will allows you to thoughtfully decide how your earthly possessions will be distributed after your passing. More importantly, it provides clarity and comfort for your loved ones during a time that can otherwise feel overwhelming. You also create opportunities to bless ministries, churches, or causes that have shaped your faith journey, including your church and Worship Anew. In this way, your legacy continues to reflect your love for Christ and His work in the world. Without a current will, families may face confusion or conflict, and your wishes may be eventually decided by the government, not you.
Power of Attorney: Trusting Another to Care
A power of attorney appoints someone you trust to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This document ensures that your affairs are handled responsibly and according to your wishes by a child or spouse, a close friend, or another faithful steward. By naming someone ahead of time, you spare your family the burden of uncertainty and allow them to act confidently, knowing they are honoring your desires.
Advance Healthcare Directive: Speaking with Peace
An advance healthcare directive, sometimes called a living will, gives guidance about your medical care if you are unable to communicate. It may include your preferences regarding treatments, life support, and comfort care, as well as appointing someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. Having them written down lifts a tremendous weight from loved ones, who might otherwise struggle with uncertainty. It allows them to focus on being present with you, rather than wondering what you would have wanted.
How Worship Anew Can Help
Our mission is to provide resources for aging adults to live a full and abundant life in Christ, and we want to help ensure that you have these documents in place. We recognize that sometimes cost or selecting an attorney may keep you from moving forward.
If you live in the greater Fort Wayne, Ind. area, you can contact us to schedule a meeting with an attorney in August to help you draft these documents. For those needing a simple will and who set aside a gift for your church or Worship Anew, our provided attorneys will draft these three documents at no cost. There may be a reduced cost if your personal situation requires a more advanced plan. If you live outside Northeast Indiana, please contact us and we can help connect you to an attorney closer to your home.
Don’t Delay
For these three important documents, if you wait until you need these resources, it may be too late. We understand that these conversations can stir feelings of discomfort. Yet, for us as Christ followers, we know that preparation is not rooted in fear of the unknown but in the confidence in God’s promises. Our future rests securely in His hands.
As you consider National Write a Will Month, take this opportunity to review or create your will, power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. In doing so, you create not only practical peace of mind but also a lasting testimony of faith, love, and thoughtful stewardship.
And in all things, rest assured: The God who has walked with you throughout your life will continue to hold you and those you love securely in His grace.