Through the years, I have had the honor to offer fifteen eulogies for departed family members and friends. Just this week, I was responsible for a friend's graveside service. When facing the charge to give a eulogy, I always find myself dealing with confusion driven by inconsistent feelings. I cannot fathom anybody worthy enough to speak abbreviated words in the attempt to summarize the totality of a person's lifetime journey; how dare we! So, you ask then, why do you accept the eulogy invitation? Two reasons push me to dare: First, my relationship with and love for the departed and secondly, my desire to speak words, which might ease the pain of loss for those who grieve.
When we gather to pay public homage with a eulogy...please consider:
On a day Not of our choosing, we are born into this life and begin our journey. On that day and in that birth moment, we are crying, we are fearful, we are uncertain and without knowledge. Yet those around us at our birth are laughing, hugging and joyfully celebrating.
We go into life's journey called upon to make many choices and assume many roles. We are a son/daughter; brother/sister; sweetheart-husband/wife and perhaps one day called to be a parent and grandparent.
My journey like yours seemingly has a Master's plan. The love of our God is nearby protecting, guiding, and upholding. Considering all the choices and all the roles we might embrace, we are first and foremost a CHILD OF GOD. Therefore, on another day, Not of your choosing nor mine, our journey comes to an end as God calls us home to a place of peace, tranquility and celebration.
In that death moment, we Christ followers believe that we pass into a place of peace, wholeness and joyful celebration and yet those around us are crying, uncertain and without knowledge.
May the time remaining in our respective journey's be filled with sharing the love of the Lord who commanded us 'To love one another as He has loved us.'
And...behold the hidden power, which controls our future.
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