First Baptist Church of Herndon

Weddings and Funerals

Linda Soller | Jun 27, 2022

How does that saying go? Seems like you only see folks at weddings and funerals, or something like that. I’ve had more than I like of the later over the past six months. But the saying is true and in some small way the knowledge that you will see familiar faces is soothing. Weddings are all about the bride and groom, but funerals are truly for those left behind. 

At the most recent funeral I attended it was fascinating, but not surprising, to see the diversity of people in attendance. It was proof of a life that had been spent caring about and for others. But it was special in another way. Herndon, VA was a small town when I was a child. While the town has grown substantially, it never ceases to amaze me as to how many of the people I knew as a child are still around. And even if they have moved away, a funeral often brings them back. We do look older, and not everyone moves about as easily, but they’re the people who knew me when. These are the people who play a part in making you who you are today. So very important and yet we can go years without seeing them. They bring out memories of our past, but they have little to do with our day-to-day world. It feels so natural to greet them and chat, but I sometimes wonder how we get to this place. The hugs and greetings are truly sincere, yet we will all go on separate paths once the service ends. 

Sometimes I think we underestimate or maybe we just ignore how cleverly God teaches us life lessons.  But last week I found myself thanking God for reminding me of all the people in my life who are still here, and still important to me. He sent me a message loud and clear that no matter how difficult the times can feel I am not in this alone.  You are not alone. One person said to me, “I had to see everyone to know how much I missed seeing everyone”.  Now that is a statement to remember the next time you opt out of going to a wedding or a funeral.

Be the love in the world  :o)