Weddings and funerals

I appreciate those of you who have left comments or sent emails or have been praying about the events I've been dealing with yesterday and today. I believe it really has helped me be able to help others. Thanks. There is a decent newspaper article HERE about the shooting (thanks to Carrie for pointing it out). I've probably talked to more people in the last two days than I usually do in two weeks (maybe months).

It's funny though... there are tons of books for ministers about weddings and funerals. Many of them are even carry the title "Handbook for Weddings & Funerals." It gives tips and tidbits of information and whatnot, and they're kinda handy to have around. But what strikes me as odd is how many times I have actually had a wedding and funeral on the same weekend. I didn't count, but I swear it's happened to me like five times. And this weekend I have a wedding on Saturday and this funeral on Sunday. I've never done a Sunday funeral before, but... what the heck. Why not, you know. At least the wedding is not at my church (so I don't have to be janitor and stuff too), and I'm just assisting with the funeral (it's not at my church either). The guy I'm doing the funeral with is one of those natural 'people persons' and he excels in all the areas where I lack - so it should work out well. At least as well as a funeral can work out.

Weddings and funerals are funny things in and of themselves too. I mean, I really dread having to do either one of them. Weddings can take a lot of preparation. And who ever wants to think about funerals. However, it is also an extreme honor and privilege to be involved in both events. Every time I plan out a wedding ceremony it moves my soul. They can be such beautiful occasions, and I always feel very good and hopeful and even somewhat proud walking a couple through their wedding. Funerals can be that way even more-so. I realize no one in their right mind is really listening during most funerals. But they are such holy moments. I wonder if there is anything holier, actually? When do that many people together think about God?

Anyway, if you're the praying type, I would appreciate them for me as well as those I will be ministering with, among, and to over these next several days. I pray that both events will be filled with such holiness that time will be altered; hearts and minds will be transfixed and transformed. That in the midst of joy there will be a deep soulful experience, and in the sorrow of silence there will be a contentment of hope and faith and a true sense of peace that surpasses all understanding for everyone involved.

Peace, my friends. Out and in.