Foolishness At A FuneralBy Steven F. Deaton |
Have you ever been to a funeral and heard or seen something ridiculous? I have, more than once. People, sometimes for understandable reasons, occasionally lose their common sense and good judgment at a funeral. Things they would never do on a normal day, they will say and do at a funeral. At other times, however, people say and do ridiculous things because that is truly what they believe. We recently attended a funeral of a family member—related by marriage—and heard something that was surprising, but not surprising. The service was held in an Assembly of God church building. It was slick. We could not understand what the preacher (Pastor Bob) was saying. No, he did not speak in Spanish or even “unknown tongues.” Rather, his message was disjointed. If this is what they get week in and week out, they cannot have a clue as to what the Bible teaches. However illogical Bob’s words were, it was the son of the deceased who made a statement that baffled me. The son did a great job of honoring his dad. He spoke well and was understandable. Yet, when he spoke about his father being in heaven, he said he could see his father fishing in the river of life and jumping in it; having fun. It is sad to see people have no more respect for heaven, and by connection, for God. Did Jesus die so people could enjoy their favorite earthly pass time for eternity? Will there be golf courses in heaven? How about race tracks, mountain bikes, airplanes, or parachutes? If we are not careful, this type of foolish thinking can creep into our heads. The Bible presents heaven as a place of joy; free from pain, sadness, and suffering (Matt. 25:21). Fellowship with God will be enjoyed in its fullness forever (Rev. 21:1-7). What exactly that will consist of, I am not sure—perhaps eternal worship (Rev. 4:8-11; 5:8-14), but I am confident it will not be putting worms on hooks! What are some ridiculous things you have seen or heard at funerals? Let us know, click here. |
Blessed is the man who listens to me, |
