Service and legacy
“David served the purpose of God in his generation.” (Acts 13:36) Death is inevitable. All die and should give an account of self to God. (Hebrews 9:27) God has a plan and will for each one born in this world. Discovering God’s plan and discerning His will is real wisdom. There are four things a person leaves when s/he dies.
Memories The near and dear ones have great memories. People would remember the joyful, bold, sad, distressful, humorous, and painful moments that they had experienced with the dead person. It is a more subjective experience. When all people who know the dead person dies, the memories also die.
Souvenirs The personal items of a person could be called souvenirs. The people close to the dead person would like to keep them as a memory or memento. The photos, videos, dresses, gadgets, specks, certificates, passports…etc. As days pass on, it may not be of any value, and end up in trash cans.
Trophies Certain accomplishments are rewarded with trophies. Being part of a sports team, a global conference, a gold medal in university, the best performance in various fields, awards given by the government, global institutions…etc. Some may have a few, others may have many such prized trophies. Sometimes, children and grandchildren of the dead preserve them. Heads of government trophies are preserved in museums.
Material Legacy A person could leave a material legacy like a house, property, assets, gold…etc. This would naturally go to the children or the person may give it to some organizations or institutions. Some create a scholarship fund or start an institution.
Spiritual Legacy This could have a ripple effect in the world, and extend to eternity. Leading a person to Lord Jesus Christ will impact that person in this life. When that person makes more disciples, the process continues affecting many contexts. When a sinner repents there is a great celebration in Heaven, and they become eternal friends of those who lead him/her to light. (Luke 16:9) David’s psalms, and contribution to Temple, are some spiritual impacts that extended beyond his time.