What’s On Your Bucket List?

Kevin Michael McKeehan, better known by his stage name TobyMac, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer.

The “Christian artist” was recently asked in a news conference what are some things on his bucket list. In other words, what are the dreams and goals he hoped to achieve before he died.

With 56 songs on Billboards Hot Christian Songs chart, including 30 top ten hits and 7 #1 singles, you might think it would be music related. However his answer had nothing to do with music.

“I think to finish well,” he said. “You know, I’ve been doing this for a while. [That] would be a bucket list thing — just to finish well.”

He then added enjoying time with his wife and sharing their love together when he slows down from touring and making music.

What’s on your bucket list?

I asked ChatGPT what are the bucket list items for most adults. Here’s the AI answer.

• Travel to Dream Destination.
• See the Northern Lights.
• Go Skydiving or Bungee Jumping.
• Learn a New Language or Skill.
• Write a Book or Start a Blog.
• Run a Marathon or Complete a Major Fitness Goal.
• Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride.
• Volunteer or Do a Mission Trip Abroad.
• See a World Wonder like the Great Wall or the Pyramids.
• Attend a Major World Event like the Olympics or Super Bowl.

ChatGPT then asked if I would like a list tailored to a Christian perspective. I answered “Yes.” Here’s that list with AI comments.

1. Visit the Holy Land (Israel)
– Walk where Jesus walked: Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee, the Mount of Olives, and more. A deeply moving experience for many Christians.

2. Lead Someone to Christ
– Sharing the gospel and seeing a life transformed by Jesus is one of the most fulfilling spiritual goals.

3. Go on a Mission Trip
– Whether overseas or local, participating in missions—feeding the hungry, building churches, teaching kids—broadens compassion and faith.

4. Read the Entire Bible
– Many Christians aim to read through the whole Bible at least once, often using a one-year reading plan.

5. Be Baptized or Baptize Someone Else
– Taking this step of faith (or being part of someone else’s) is a significant spiritual milestone.

6. Forgive Someone Who Hurt You Deeply
– True forgiveness is life-changing and reflects Christ’s example of grace and reconciliation.

7. Attend a Major Christian Event
– Conferences like Passion, Hillsong, or a national Christian concert or revival can reignite spiritual passion.

8.Support or Sponsor a Child in Need
– Partnering with organizations like Compassion International or World Vision allows you to impact a life both materially and spiritually.

9. Memorize a Chapter of the Bible
– Hiding God’s Word in your heart (Psalm 119:11) builds spiritual strength and wisdom.

10. Serve Faithfully in a Local Ministry
– Whether it’s teaching children, mentoring youth, leading a small group, or being part of a prayer or worship team—faithful service glorifies God and shapes your legacy.

While I might add, tweak, or modify this list a bit, it does provide a different perspective from the first list. However, as a 77-year-old Christian, preacher, and Bible teacher, I really like TobyMac’s simple, succinct answer. “Finish well.”

I want to be able to echo the words of the apostle Paul who at the end of his life could speak to such a wonderful achievement in 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

I want to finish the race. To remain faithful to the very end. To stay loyal and true to the Lord. To continue to bear fruit in old age. To keep growing in grace, not just coasting to the finish line. And to leave a legacy of faith for my children, grandchildren, and brethren.

I want to finish well.

What’s on your bucket list?

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman