LAMENT FOR A SON
Last night, the family attended a memorial service for a twenty year-old man who died suddenly and tragically. My daughters know his brothers and have several other friends in common. Cheryl and I know a number of people who know the family. Sadly, we did not know him.
After the service, I mused on the number of funerals I have officiated or attended where I did not know the person being remembered. Many of these people were remarkable and intriguing. I am sure I would have loved conversation with this young man about the themes of justice and mercy.
Someone might say that we only see the best of people at their funerals; no one tells the full story during such a sad time.
Iwould beg to differ. Last night, I heard about the young man who was growing and launching out in faith, but who had not arrived and was still maturing. In other memorials, I heard numerous counts of the person’s wonderful points and weaknesses. In some ways, I began to miss these people as if they were part of my community.
The young man we remembered last night was indeed part of my community, even if it was a distant connection. We both embrace the same Lord and the same hope. As one eulogizer said, ”he is a part of me even though he is dead.” He is still very much alive for the impact he had on those he knew.
So I grieve for those who grieve and pray for their comfort. I also grieve with them for the many opportunities that will not materialize. I grieve for the relationships he leaves for now, and for the relationship he and I will not share (whether we would have or not, I do not kn0w; I can only imagine). But we all grieve as people who have hope in Jesus, for in Him we will all be reunited. In that day, there will be no parting. I will know face to face what did not materialize for us here on earth.
Peace to S.D. as he rests in the arms of Jesus and to his family and many friends, his community. I grieve with you and look forward to connecting with him again…for the first time.
Leave a Reply
About Me
Hi, I'm Mike Spinelli, aka, PastaSpin. Thanks for visiting my blog, where I stew over questions, ponder life, and talk about what is happening. It all comes with one focus - how am I following Jesus today and how can I help others do the same?
Mike, nice message. I like how you picked up on the common bond we have with other believers. In this case, what a blessing to see 500 people from more than two different congregations come together to mourn the loss of this young man.
I also liked your mention of the hope we have in Christ. For we are not as those who grieve without hope (loose paraphrase and I am too lazy to look it up right now !)