I received one of those phone calls earlier this week. One of those calls that lead down dark pathways--or as the psalmist writes, "through the valley of the shadow of death."
About two years ago, I endured one of the hardest days of ordained ministry--officiating at the funeral of a still born child. As I led the service, I simply could not look at the grieving parents.
My worst nightmare during our son's miracle pregnancy was that something would go wrong, but I was fortunate. It didn't. I have a happy, healthy son.
Those parents at the funeral weren't that lucky. Their son had died in-utero. Seven months in. That tiny casket at the front of the funeral home was a stark reminder that when lightening strikes, it can have devastating effects.
Therefore, I cannot begin to fathom what this same couple is going through right now. Lightening has indeed struck twice. Another death in-utero. Another baby boy. Another round of grief, anguish, and despair.
I may be called upon to preside at this funeral. How does one bring good news into the midst of such a nightmare? I am glad it will not be solely up to me to bring God's Word. There is something to be said for the Holy Spirit's work. I only hope He can use me to, if I am asked, to bring some small measure of comfort into lives which are burned tremendously once again.
Lightening strikes suck.
No comments:
Post a Comment