NO TEARS WERE SHED

I have conducted many funerals over the years. I have heard many tributes given by friends and family members of those who have passed away. It is intriguing to hear what is said - and what is left unsaid. Especially if I have not know the person well, or at all - I have been most interested to hear what is said about her or his life.
Writing about the death of Old Testament kings, sometimes little or nothing is said. On the other hand for King Hezekiah, the author notes "all Judah and the people of Jerusalem honoured him when he died"; and about King Josiah the author notes that "all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for him" and that "Jeremiah composed laments for Josiah". II Chronicles 35:24,25
On the other hand in one phrase, the same author makes a devastating summary comment about King Jehoram who ruled Judah. After eight years of miserable leadership, it is written: "He passed away to no one's regret"! Imagine! What a tragic life summary! In the Message, Peterson paraphrases it this way "No tears were shed - good riddance." II Chronicles 21:20

It is a thought provoking question: "What will people say at your funeral?" Of course at most funerals nice things are said and the failures of the deceased are not mentioned. For most of us, when we pass away, the response will likely be something between an entire country mourning and "to no one's regret". But what will people say, or at least think about your life when you die? I remember one funeral I conducted for a man I had met only briefly. The most important thing said about him was that he loved to golf! Imagine! What a sad, empty legacy.
You may not be well known, but if you love and serve people in Jesus name, there will be some who mourn and will regret your passing. You will leave a legacy in their lives.