Joy and Grief

Tonight I experienced both ends of the spectrum as a pastor, all at the same time. I was privileged to lead the funeral for Nathan Pool. Nate was 48, leaving behind 10 and 20 year old daughters, a wife, parents and one sister.

I had to do all I could to contain myself from just weeping. No, I did not know Nate, and in some respects I don't feel bad for Nate, he's in glory, but looking at his daughters sobbing, along with his wife and parents, just broke my heart. It's one of the aspects of my calling I don't like. Last weeks two funerals for a 93 and 96 year old are okay, that's the way it's supposed to be.

I could not help but picture Joshua and Zachary sitting in the front row. Makes me want to take better care of myself, so I can stick around a lot longer. Read the next post for more on that one.

The joy is eternal life for Nate, the grief is picking up the pieces and carrying on.

So, pray for this family, pray for the girls who will miss their daddy. Nate's mom has been attending FBC for the past two months. Keep the Pool family in prayer.