What Will They Say at My Funeral?

Tomorrow I have the privilege of speaking at a funeral. An elderly lady and saint (in the biblical sense) who battled Alzheimer's for several years has gone to be with the Lord.

In speaking with her family earlier today, I could sense that this woman was greatly loved. Now, we know that almost every family says nice things about those who have died. However, these folks seemed genuine and could give examples of why she was so loved and admired.

After listening to the family, I need to put together what I'm going to say. I was told that she cherished Psalm 23, so I'll probably speak from that chapter. I'm also, of course, going to talk about this sweet lady.

That got me to thinking about what might be said at my own funeral. People usually talk about how others have impacted their lives in a positive way. Have I done this? (That, by the way, is meant to be somewhat of a rhetorical question). What kind of impact have I made?

This is a tough question to answer. It forces me, or anyone else brave enough, to ask what my life means to others. Do they care what I believe? Maybe. Do they care if I have served them? No doubt.

Beliefs certainly matter. In fact, they matter a great deal. However, I'm guessing that at my funeral people will talk about how I have impacted their lives for the better. This almost always comes in the form of sacrificial service.

I need to get serving.