Legacy

Walking with Jesus: this is the story of Legacy. 

Tune in as I delve into the life and reflections of Judge Marvin Atwater, a remarkable individual who's nearing his 97th birthday. Despite his age, Judge Atwater's spirit remains unwavering as he contemplates the meaning of his final phase of life.  
From his courageous decision to forego treatment, to his final moments spent with loved ones, the Judge's story powerfully showcases the consoling promise of heaven and the importance of living for God's eternal kingdom.

In this journey into Judge Marvin Atwater's life, we're reminded of the significance of family, reflection, and gratitude in the face of life's inevitable challenges. His story teaches us the importance of cherishing each moment and embracing the different phases of life with grace and resilience while walking with Jesus. 

Transcript

Releasing Christian Short Story at 80

Speaker 1 0:04

I'm Marvin McIntyre and it's taken me 80 years to release my first Christian short story . Previously I had written three financial thrillers , but I felt pulled in another direction . It was one thing to say I was walking with Jesus , it's another thing to demonstrate it . I am compelled to share my faith . Before I became fully committed to this project , I prayed for a sign that this was what God wanted me to do . Did I just want to tell everyone I knew what a good Christian I was , or was I supposed to share my stories ? The next day , a close friend sent me an email because his father had been ill . I had sent him a copy of Legacy , which is the subject of this podcast . My friend told me that his dad had died , but he wanted to share his dad's email to him . Son , I am at peace . I enjoyed your friend's story and I believe he is right about heaven . I teared up and I knew I had an obligation to God . This story , along with others I hope to share , is from my walking with Jesus collection . It didn't happen early , even when I was in Vietnam . It took a trauma and a helplessness to begin my walk .

Speaker 1 1:43

Judge Marvin Adwater stretched out his son's bladdered hands and scrutinized them skeptically . He could get dizzy counting the sunspots . When he started to shake , he pulled them back into his body . The tremors had gotten worse . It was a hell of a thing to happen two days before his birthday .

Speaker 1 2:06

Formally six foot one , the judge was still lean and had reasonably good strength for an almost 97-year-old Sure . His white hair was thin and , as crystal blue eyes were so faded , they were almost translucent . No whining , though he was a blessed man For the past 50 years . He told family and friends that he would live to be 100 years old . He smiled as he remembered being in his men's spiritual group meeting almost 20 years ago . The pastor who led the meeting was the former president of Cedarville University and a close friend of the judges . The topic of the meeting was , since all the attendees were in the fourth quarter of their lives , what did they hope to accomplish in their final quarter ? When the pastor asked the question , the judge was the first in the group to raise his hand . It was greeted by an eye roll from his friend who suspected nonsense . Okay , judge , he said what do you hope to accomplish in the fourth quarter of your life ? There was a pregnant pause and then the judge answered over time .

Speaker 1 3:23

It was 48 years ago when that water gave up a promising law career to become a federal judge in Charleston , south Carolina . He would never have made the change without a buy-in from his beloved wife , grace , and , quite frankly , the idea of living the rest of his days in beautiful Charleston didn't hurt . Best of all , his four kids had stayed in Charleston after college and six of his eight grandchildren had done the same . Grudgingly , he kept the two grandchildren that had gone rogue in his will . When we are young , birthdays are celebrated every year . As we age , they will likely still be acknowledged annually , but the parties tend to happen every five or ten years . However , when and if you make it to the 90s , it's a big deal every year , because it might be your last . For Judge Marvin Atwater , 97 would definitely be his last .

Speaker 1 4:21

The day after the gathering , hospice would descend upon his home . When he was offered perhaps another six months , but with daily dialysis , he chose door number one . It wasn't bravery , nor had his desire to squeeze the last moments out of life diminished . It was that his kids would feel that they had to be there with him whenever he was in treatment . As his late wife Grace would have testified he was not at all adverse to being pampered and weighted on , but seeing his kids and grandkids trying to hold smiles that couldn't reach their eyes would have broken his heart . Only an ungrateful , self-absorbed promudion would be asked , in the good Lord , for something more . After all , he'd received thought Atwater , gruefully . Still , he felt he had rationalized his last request so splendidly that the nine Supremes would give him a unanimous verdict . After all , god , this is really for you .

Speaker 1 5:27

The light knock on the door brought him out of his reverie . Come in , he said purposely , making his voice strong . Hi , dad , said his daughter Maggie . We're trying to figure out what you want for your birthday meal . Looking not a day older than 50 , 70-year-old Maggie could still light up a room with her smile .

Speaker 1 5:47

Hmm , atwater , said as he rubbed his chin and looked upward . My doctor mentioned that my cholesterol level is slightly elevated . I guess I'll just have the vegetable plate . She laughed and somewhere an angel smiled . I should do that just because you're such a smart alec . Last chance , okay .

Speaker 1 6:13

Then he said enthusiastically Filet medium rare cord in the cob , sauteed mushrooms and your fabulous salad dressing on the side , of course . Done , she said , adding a confident tone . Is there anything else I can do for you . Dad , can you give me another three years ? You know how I hate to be wrong . I'd give you three of mine if I could . She said wistfully , wash your mouth out with soap , child . He admonished . Never , never , think that way . You actually contribute to this good earth . Don't put on that humble act with me . You've done a lot of good in your life , dad . Thanks , honey , he said and held out his arms to the hug he knew would come . He luxuriated in her powerful hug . Speaking softly into her hair , he asked could you schedule a time for Catherine to visit with me Later that afternoon ?

Speaker 1 7:13

The judge shifted his body on the blue and white husband pillow . His laptop computer was on the mahogany nightstand , or what used to be his side of the bed . Since Grace's death , the whole King's side bed was his domain . He glanced again at his Apple Watch , his last birthday gift from his eight grandkids . In truth , he was probably happier with his old watch , but he acted excited whenever one of the eight was in view , as expected .

Speaker 1 7:41

At exactly four o'clock , catherine McDougal knocked on his door . Enter , he said in a regal tone . Catherine pushed open the door and gave him an eye roll . She had been his legal assistant for 35 years and , after he retired , assumed the role of CFO of the smallest family office on the planet . At five feet two inches , she was a formidable woman with steel gray hair , dark eyes and little wisps of eyebrows that she refused to darken . As the judge's right-hand woman . She had been precise , thorough and indispensable . Nothing had changed . You called your majesty , she said with an extra layer of sarcasm oh , catherine , the Great tis eye , who should lie prostrate at your feet ? Well , if that's not a load of crap , you must really want something big this time . The judge broke into a big smile .

Speaker 1 8:44

Perhaps the most endearing quality of his loyal , longtime friend was that she never treated him as if he were dying . She simply refused to acknowledge that Marvin Adwater would ever expire , and he loved her for it . You know me too well , my dear . He scrubbed his forehead with his hand and motioned for her to come closer . She walked towards his bed and leaned down so that her curious face was about six inches from his . He whispered earnestly . I need to be sure that all my progeny accept my faith . In whispered tones he outlined his plans for immortality .

Speaker 1 9:27

The pain look on Catherine's face was not an act . She shook her head and the judge knew she didn't want this project . He went into sales 101 . Raising his hands in protest before she could tell him it was impossible . Adwater said I know this sounds like an arduous task at the time . I have left Ever the actor . He looked with her said expression it may take too much of your time .

Speaker 1 9:54

She took a step back , feeling less she'd been slapped . She spoke her voice at an uncharacteristic edge . This is not a question of whether we could complete the project . I would give it every waking minute and your way to ornery to die on me before you finished . It's just not a good idea Spitting out a reason . It's like she was pounding a keyboard .

Speaker 1 10:22

She said there are too many variables . What if the recipients are agnostic or uncomfortable with your message ? What if they feel like it's an obligation to listen to you and that ends up distorting memories , like my grandfather gave me homework from the grave . Sorry to be so brutal and unhelpful , she added with a dollop of scarred sarcasm . No , no , he said in a placating tone or raising his hands and surrender . You know I value your insight . Hands on her hips , she made him wait for her response . Okay , she said resolutely Then are you doing this to spread the gospel to your offspring or certify that you're a born-again Christian ? He sat back against his pillows . I don't know . He said softly , feeling defeated . I thought I mean my intentions . The judge forced to smile . Let me think about it . Tonight You've been extraordinarily helpful , dear . Could you stop by the morrow noon for lunch and we can spitball some ideas ? Kafton waited a beat , as if wanting to say more , and then said of course , judge , friday the 13th and 1130 in the morning came too soon because his days now were definitely numbered .

Speaker 1 11:48

Jack Water didn't sleep well in most nights , but last night was ridiculous . No chance of bed swords on his body . He'd been a rolling pin for the last dozen hours . After all that time together , he had no illusion that Kafton would just agree with everything he proposed , but in faith-based initiatives they were normally on the same page . Her immediate response had sent him into a tornado of conflicting thoughts , bouncing around his brain like a plethora of pinballs crashing against each other . A flicker of hope crossed his weather countenance as Kafton walked into his bedroom with a tight smile on her face . Adwater had showered , shaved and combed his thin hair . If he'd added a suit of starch white shirt and a red tie . He would have looked like he was ready for work from a distance .

Speaker 1 12:46

Judge out in sleep . Well , last night she began to join the club and I know you asked for my help because you know if anyone can do it , I can . He nodded , but you are seriously off base here . The judge squeezed his eyes shut . You also asked me because I know you better than almost anyone , that maybe your family you knew I would approach your request not as a lawyer , giving you reasons why I was impractical , but as your strongest advocate , looking for a solution to your problem . Finally , I may be the only person who can talk you out of this . Well , aren't you , mrs Sunshine , used to his childless behavior ? When he was overruled , she stared at him . Do you want me to leave ? She asked in an even tone , just blood out of breath . You have the floor .

Speaker 1 13:42

I understand that children today and grandchildren often do not share the faith or religious practices of the patriarch . Soccer , lacrosse and basketball games are held on Sundays . Prayer and schools unlawful . Church attendance is sporadic and best when they're with you , there's blessing before meals . But how about when they are just with their immediate families ? You and I both see God's work in our lives , but is that because we're looking for it ? Walking with Jesus has been the defining moment of both of our lives .

Speaker 1 14:20

I get it that you want to share that message . Spread the gospel to those who you love most . It's the method that's flawed . Your idea is to leave a birthday message for each of your progeny for the next 60 years . Well , honey , that's tender , but I don't believe that will accomplish your objective . Her expression became pained . It could batfire become an obligation , a judgment . If they turned it off , I get it . I get it .

Speaker 1 14:52

Edwardor said angrily I'm an old fool . If they go to hell , there's nothing I can do . Catherine left . It was a perfect imitation of a five-year-old having a tantrum . You're not an old fool , just an old drama queen . She shook his head and said weirdly okay , I give up . Thanks for your analysis . You know I didn't mean what I said . I do know and I know you're cranky and contankerous and you've won arguments all your life by being the loudest voice in the room .

Speaker 1 15:21

The judge was unable to stifle a chuckle . Now sit there and be quiet . I'm not done , she said emphatically . His head popped up . I'm sorry you still have the floor . Good , because I'm going to tell you exactly what you're going to do with the precision of a drill sergeant she outlined to a plan . Go over it again . Yes , now modified , not only because of Catherine's plan , but also because of a delicious BLT , a bag of sunships , unsweetened iced tea and a homemade caramel cupcake . You wiped his mouth with a paper napkin and looked up expectantly and be nice to me if you want to take one of my cupcakes home with you .

Speaker 1 16:07

Do you require lawyers to make their arguments more than once ? She asked with a sassy grin . No , but they didn't make as much sense as you Be still my heart , she said while placing a hand on her chest . I do believe that was a compliment . He groused in motion for her to continue . You have a choice of either a virtual will , he groused in motion for her to continue . You have a choice of either a virtual will would supersede your pride will or a virtual cotsaw would simply ask your original wishes .

Speaker 1 16:48

Before you became a federal judge , you made a lot of money . Were you with me then ? He asked innocently , trying faintly for an advantage . No , but it wouldn't have made any difference . You still kept it all for yourself .

Judge's Farewell and Reflections on Heaven

Speaker 1 17:03

The judge left . What would I do without you ? Sorry , that's too much of a softball . Now be quiet and listen . I'm not giving you a third run through . Unlike others , less prudent barristers , you also invested very well , so your state is beyond comfortable for your heirs . Because of that , your sizable IRA funnels into your family's charitable fund , so your good works will continue . Besides , the bequest enumerated in your videotape will slash castle . You will address your family in your own inimitable style . You will explain your faith and , most importantly , you will tell them what heaven is going to be like In honor . Do I know what heaven will be like ? Yes , softly , by the time the cameras are rolling , you will sleep , friend , you will .

Speaker 1 18:04

Despite its intention , the judge was unable to muster his trademark enthusiasm for his birthday . The next day , even with the entire family there , his mind drifted to his legacy and the fact it would be his last birthday on earth . He would have been surprised if anyone other than his children and Catherine picked up on it , but his smile felt forced and his laughter canned , plus the presence of the two hospice workers . Plus the presence of the two hospice workers felt like he was watching his own funeral . He didn't feel that badly . Could the doctors be wrong ? The next few weeks passed by , and each pain made him fear he wouldn't make it to the finish line . Sure , he was scared , but God help him . He wanted to get this done .

Speaker 1 18:57

It hadn't been easy to transport Judge Atwater to his old office . The family objected , the hospice workers were uncomfortable , but Catherine had been insistent . Her logic was that the judge needed to sit in his seat , have lunch at his desk and just breathe in the law library that surrounded his former massive desk . Unsaid was the fact that it would be the last time he would be there . It helped to case that court was in recess because of the holidays .

Speaker 1 19:27

Dressed in his best dark gray suit with a silver pinstripe , made him feel human , if only for the moment . Catherine held one arm in the videographer , held the other as they helped him to his chair . Atwater looked at the cameras , blinked as a young woman approached , put some pancake makeup on him and looked at Catherine Are you sure about this ? She reached over his desk and clutched both of his hands . You told me that he was with us always . Do you really think your words will not be is ? You gave her a begrudging smile . Well , you snuck me out of my house arrest like a ninja , so I shouldn't start doubting you now . If I get tongue-tied , well , maybe it means my message wasn't meant to be .

Speaker 1 20:17

The request section went flawlessly , but it might have had something to do with the fact that the judge read from a teleprompter . Out of the corner of his eye he saw that Catherine tried to hide a tear when she heard she was a beneficiary . Now it was time for the next section . No notes , no rehearsal , just open them out , trust in God and wing it . My beloved family , which is arguably considered by many as the world's greatest family . I hope you're excited for me .

Speaker 1 20:48

By now I'm in my heavenly home . I'm sure that I won't be too surprised when I enter heaven , as the Bible provides a pretty good blueprint of what to expect . I sure wish that I could send you a checklist telling you all the things I got right about life at turtle . But first I want to remind you all how blessed I was in my life on earth . I married the woman of my dreams and we had 61 years of bliss together . We had four amazing children , all of them unique in their own way , and we had so much fun growing up together with them .

Speaker 1 21:28

That's smart , alec . Charlie is probably saying dad , you never grew up , and I can't rightly deny that . Somehow the judge managed to punctuate his remark with a mischievous little boy smile . I don't think any of that was an accident or just a quirk of fate . I believe my wonderful life was God's work . My father in heaven gave me a job that I loved for wonderful children and eight of the coolest grandkids on the planet . Meanwhile I was walking with Jesus . He was right by my side . Not an accident , not a coincidence , maybe the help of a guardian angel . But God was always there , and so , my precious family , I know that God will be there for you . When you were lost , let go and let God reach out and take the right hand of our Savior . He is waiting and pray . My children pray , give thanks every day . The judge voice changed in tone .

Speaker 1 22:38

Now , who wants to know what heaven is like ? Heaven is beyond your wildest dreams . It's better than anything you can ever imagine . Everyone you love to die before you is waiting for you and they are perfectly healthy and they can't wait to embrace you and welcome you to the mansion in the sky . You are never hungry or thirsty or cold or hot , yet the feeling of euphoria that you have cannot be described . The Bible tells us that it's a place of incredible joy , a celebration , a party . Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God . It's a place of reward . Store up for yourself treasures in heaven and , best of all , this reward is forever an Inheritance that can never perish , spoil or fade .

Speaker 1 23:35

You all have choices when you live on earth . Are you living for this world ? Are you living for heaven ? You're probably thinking can I do both ? Sure , but which one becomes your priority ? I Can tell you from experience if you love this world , it's never enough . If we don't live for heaven , we must rely on ourselves , which ensures that at times we will flounder , stumble and sin . Without the guidance and forgiveness of heaven , we can become rudderless . Jesus told us . In this world you will have tribulation . The judge raised his hands . I can pretty much guarantee that . But if you consider this life a trip rather than an ultimate destination , I promise you it's much easier to fight through the disappointments , the heartaches and the inevitable tragedies . When my grace , he died without my God and the promise of heaven , I would have laid down beside her and just given up .

Speaker 1 24:36

He paused the use the back of his hand to wipe his eyes . Remember those days on the beach when it was warm but the wind was coming from the ocean and was , like you were toasty , but the air conditioning of the breeze made it perfect . Welcome to heaven . Here's what I don't know yet , but I will by the time you're watching this . Is there golf in heaven ? Will I be good or still lousy ? Can I watch NFL football ? He paused and collected himself . Most importantly , he said slowly Well , I have achieved my life's ambition . When I see Jesus , will he say Well done , good and faithful servant . Goodbye , my wonderful family

Power in Prayer, Heaven's Promise

Speaker 1 25:21

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Speaker 1 25:21

Remember that when Jesus taught his disciples to pray , he said our father , who art in heaven ? Heaven is real , it is guaranteed for believers and I pray that each one of you will be the best person you can be all of your life and that you will remember to live For your celestial home . Leaning close to the camera , judge Marvin Atwood smile the biggest smile of his life and said Because it is amazing , here the judges had felt to his chest and he closed his eyes . Catherine wiped her eyes with a tissue and waiting until the judge ended his silent prayer . Slowly he lifted his head and looked into her eyes . I'm ready to go home . Thank you for listening to legacy . I hope you enjoyed my story and will mention it to your friends and even your church . When a beloved friend or family member passes , a possible peak at heaven May serve as solace . Finally , it's never too late To begin your walk with Jesus . God bless .