While on a business trip to Gwangju, South Jeolla Province, I meditated on 1 Chronicles chapters 28 and 29 as I went for a morning run and walked through the city center.
David wanted to build the temple, but God said, “You are a warrior and have shed blood; therefore, you may not build a temple for My name.” Instead, He had his son Solomon build it. Although David could not build it himself, he thoroughly prepared everything necessary for the temple’s construction. He gathered materials, passed on the blueprints taught by the Holy Spirit to Solomon, and explained every detail—from the order of the priests and Levites to their duties. He also generously offered even his personal treasures. The people also gave joyfully and voluntarily, and David offered praise and prayer to God.
There’s a phrase that often comes to mind these days: “Designed in California, Made in China.” iPhones and many other products are designed in California and manufactured in China. Often, the design and preparatory work are just as important—if not more so—than the actual construction. Just as David fully passed on the blueprints he received from God to Solomon, it is important to consider what we should prepare right now so that the next generation can build well.
As I walked the streets of Gwangju, I sensed the expressions and atmosphere of the people. It is a city with the beautiful name “City of Light,” yet I felt as though a specific historical narrative regarding the May 18th Uprising still seemed to be entrenched as the city’s spiritual root. It was heartbreaking to see that narrative confining the citizens within a certain political framework. Of course, history can be viewed from many perspectives, and this is simply my personal impression of the city as a person of faith. I could feel that weight in the air of the streets and in the expressions on people’s faces.
As I walked, I prayed. I believe that there are still believers who love God here. May a fresh breeze blow before that spark is completely extinguished. I hope the next generation will build a new history and spiritual edifice for Gwangju—rooted in authentic history, a church overflowing with life, and faith that follows Jesus. Just as David designed and prepared, we too must fully pass on the blueprint of truth and life to the next generation in this very generation. Just as Solomon built the Temple according to that blueprint, may the next generation erect a new edifice that shines with God’s light.
True to its name, “City of Light,” I pray that God’s light will shine upon this city. May it become a city built not as a political pawn, but upon truth, life, and faith. Just as the people offered their sacrifices with joy when David asked them, “Who among you will offer himself to the Lord with gladness today?” I hope that such joyful devotion will arise in this land as well.
I reflect once more on what I must prepare at this very moment. What plans and materials should I leave behind so that the next generation may build upon them? I hope that the prayers I offered while running along Gwangju’s waterfront park and walking through the city center will become small seeds in this city’s spiritual soil. The rainbow that appeared by chance over the fountain felt like an answer to those prayers.
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