"Responses from Our Souls"
If you happen to have access to a Bible, I would encourage you to read Psalm 46.
Have you ever attended a Memorial Service which can sometimes be called A Celebration of Life Service or a Home-going Service? It is a time to remember people we encountered on the journey of life, people we encountered in their dying, people we entrust to the God of Creation. The beginning words of the Psalm are also good to remember, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
People need time to express their rage and their pain, particularly in a time of loss. People who lament, generally are not tightfisted in their praise to God. How can this be? Just like a coin has two sides, so does the "coin of faith." I like to name the two sides on the "coin of faith" as lament and praise.
Lament is the grieving we experience and praise is the thanksgiving we offer. We lament as we remember. We are filled with gratitude as we remember. I invite you to join me in this affirmation: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Ben Keckler 11.05.07
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