A FATHER’S FUNERAL
The funeral service concluded, mourners and friends proceeded outdoors, and the immediate family remained in the funeral home’s shelter. As an officiating pastor, I always linger until the last, remaining with the departed, making certain I am the final one to behold the deceased prior to casket’s closure. On this particular day, many attentive family members prolonged their walk to the loved one’s body, taking ample time to express good-byes. Then, as if a calm cue were spoken, the immediate family’s final four finally wandered to coffin’s edge: a mother and her three sturdy sons. Now closing casket moments are holy seasons and quiet minutes, for these period are taxing times where statements are spoken and feelings disclosed. Words uttered at coffins’ border are meant for oneself and perhaps other family members. On this day, a day that was not expected and a day which never was welcomed, the youngest son placed his large arms around his two brothers and their…
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