A bequest is something that is left by will, and can often include works of art. An example is the Felton Bequest established by Alfred Felton, a successful businessman who lived in Melbourne during the 19th. century. His Bequest helps the needy but is also responsible for 80% of the artworks in the National Gallery of Victoria.

As a young school student in Melbourne I recall those excursions we have all done to various places of educational interest. One was to the NGV, and today I still remember the Felton Bequest.

I am reminded of one other charitable figure in history, the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ. He bequeathed PEACE to his disciples after his resurrection saying, “Peace be with you”. The full meaning of this phrase has puzzled me, what was Jesus really saying?

The legal aspect of peace with God is that we are reconciled to him, but the active aspect is that we now stand in a position of grace. His bequest of peace gives us ACCESS to all God’s goodness. We could even paraphrase the Lord’s words as ‘Prosperity be with you’.

Ref. John 20:19-26, Romans 5:1. NIV.

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