Scripture: Genesis 23:1-6
Sarah lived one hundred twenty-seven years; this was the length of Sarah’s life. And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan; and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. Abraham rose up from beside his dead, and said to the Hittites, “I am a stranger and an alien residing among you; give me property among you for a burying place, so that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” The Hittites answered Abraham, “Hear us, my lord; you are a mighty prince among us. Bury your dead in the choicest of our burial places; none of us will withhold from you any burial ground for burying your dead.”
Thought for the Day: My friend, Bob, reminded me that yesterday was the 150th anniversary of the first burial in Arlington National Cemetery. Union Pvt. William Christman, a member of the 67th Pennsylvania Infantry, was buried May 13, 1864, after dying from measles. The act of burial has for 1000’s of years been a critical and essential act for any community. Honoring those who have died, especially those whose life impacted the larger community in a positive way, has been understood as a distinctive and honored responsibility. Though culture and time may have changed some of our practices, the process is still important: From how we dispose of the physical remains to showing respect for their memory through some form of eulogy… and of course, the intentional work of grieving. People ask me questions all the time about cremation, open casket, spreading of ashes, memorial services, etc. I have a tendency not to give a lot of opinion, but explore what was important for the deceased and what would be important for the living who are mourning the loss. Arlington is a powerful symbol, but it may not be for everyone whose loved one served in the military. It is less about right and wrong and more about giving honor to a memory while doing the work needed for the living to move toward wholeness.
Prayer: I give you thanks, O Lord, for all those amazing people who have transitioned from this life to fulness of life with you. May I always seek to do what is needed to honor and heal, remember and seek restoration. Amen.
SUNDAY SERMON
Based upon the 23rd Psalm
(Special Dance at the 8:15 Service)
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