Bart asked his friend Dave this question: “Have you let your children know the details of your estate plan?”
That question unleashed a much more dramatic response from Dave than Bart was expecting. “No way. I want it to be a surprise. My kids have no business knowing what we have, or how we plan to disperse it after we are gone. I don’t want them to feel entitled to my stuff, hoping I will die soon so they get it all.”

While harsh, elements of this response may be present in many, even among Christians. Let’s break it down a bit. First, we begin by reminding ourselves that the things in our lives are really not “our” things, but God’s things, which He has asked us to manage faithfully on His behalf, to share Jesus with our families and the world around us. Second, not
having discussions with children about inheritance robs them of hearing from you your understanding of blessing, and your intentions to respond from a life of faith in managing those blessings. Third, if you are asking family members to carry out estate roles (personal representative/trustee) someday, you need to be giving them clear guidance so they can
make sure your God-directed desires are carried out.

Family dynamics can be challenging, especially where sin has left its mark. However, it is crucial, if possible, to
communicate your faith and your intentions to family, in an effort to celebrate Jesus together, especially His grace
shown on the cross. We don’t want to leave these matters dangling. 

Your LCMS Foundation Gift Planning Counselor can assist you to know your plan well, to express your faith clearly and to prepare for family conversations.

Contact - Carol von Soosten:  Carol.vonSoosten@lfnd.org Phone: 800-741-4138 lwmlgiftplan.org

Contact - Carrie Brumbaugh Gift Planning Advocate:  carrielwml@gmail.com