It was one year ago today that I received the phone call that my friend and mentor, Bob Buford, had passed into the arms of Jesus. Bob was a hero of the faith in our generation, and for our generation, and the ripple effect of his life to future generations will only be understood in eternity.
Hardly a day goes by that I don’t reflect fondly on the experience I had with Bob and remember a learning or word of encouragement he passed along. Nuggets of wisdom and truth that I’m now committed to passing along to others. His Kingdom-minded values were infectious and became not only my personal values, but the values upon which Exponential was founded.
Bob’s impact to millions of people without the use of a large platform, national microphone, or huge marketing and social media campaign seems to undermine conventional wisdom and teaching for growing your influence. Instead, his impact has similarities to a young shepherd boy slaying a giant with a small sling and stone. It was his surrendered faith and servant’s posture that made all the difference.
As I’ve reflected this morning on Bob’s life and legacy, four things are sticking out:
1. Bob’s Message – The Kingdom of God matters, we are earthly stewards of God’s provision, we can move from lives of success to lives of significance, and we are each equipped with a unique Ephesians 2:10 calling to make it happen.
2. Bob’s Scorecard – “100X Kingdom impact!”
3. Bob’s Strategy – “As for me, I have decided that just about all that will be left of me when I leave this earth is what I can let go of to invest in the lives of others. The fruit of my life and my work will grow on other people’s trees.”
4. Bob’s Posture – “You can do it; how can I help?”
Bob was, and continues to be, a model for leaving a legacy as a leader and Christ-follower who invests his life in other people. He would often say, “I want to do for others what my mentor Peter Drucker did for me! To give me permission, encouragement, and accountability.” Bob’s “wallet card” is a simple tool he used to keep his focus on the work of other people.
Watch this video of Bob as he describes this simple, yet transformative tool:
Clearly, Bob was what we call a hero-maker. In fact, Dave Ferguson and I wrote a free eBook honoring Bob titled, The Legacy of a Hero Maker. This resource not only honors Bob’ legacy but gives the reader practical teaching and application for the 5 Essential Practices of a Multiplying Leader. As you read this book, you will find the inspiration and direction you desire to be a Level 5 leader.
I pray you will experience a rich Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. I also encourage you to consider today who are the people God has put in your path to be on your “wallet card” for Kingdom investment.
Finally, please lift up Bob’s wife Linda Buford and his long-time assistant BJ Engle as they also celebrate the memory of Bob’s life and legacy today.
In celebration of Bob’s life and legacy, The Buford Library, has announced the “Lunch with Bob Conversations” webinar series. This series will feature men and women whose life was changed through Bob’s ministry, including many from the Exponential family. We will email details to everyone who downloads The Legacy of a Hero Maker so you can be a part of this unique series with top multiplying leaders.
