The following is what I preached at dad’s funeral.
I. We need to go to the house of mourning Ecclesiastes 7:2
It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.
Take death seriously
Quit living like there is no tomorrow
Realize that things don’t matter
Realize this world doesn’t matter
II. Count your days Psalm 90:12
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Dad made preparations
–he had a living will
–his funeral was prepared and paid for
Dad made preparations by being sure of his salvation
Dad made preparations by getting his children under the sound of the gospel
Dad was a giver
Dad gave to missions
III. Dad understood some basic Biblical principles
Living is not about us but Christ Philippians 1:20-24
According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
Living is about service and ministry
Heaven is far better
Austin, I am sorry to hear about your father, but it is wonderful to know
that he is with his Lord. He’s up there with John and all our relatives that
have gone before us who we hold so dear. I am looking forward to the Lord’s
coming so we can all be together again. Please let me know if I can do
anything for you and your family. I will pray for you all.
In His Care,
Darlene Williams
DeAnna Staley commented on your status:
“I don’t get on here very often but I was sorry to hear about your dad. I have been praying for you and the family.”
Margaret Ryans commented on your status:
“loved the message you preached at your dads funeral, sorry we couldn’t be there. he was a good man. he’ll have no more suffering, no more pain. my prayers are with your family.”
Mi estimado pastor.
Mi sentido pesame, por la partida de tu padre.
Nos lleva la delantera,lo unico que nos queda es seguir trabajando para la gloria y la honrra del Señor.
Un abrazo muy grande de pesame de mi y de mi familia.
Siga adelante.
Lorenzo
Mike sent you a message.
Subject: Your Dad
“Austin, I’ve been off FB for a while. I just wanted you to know of our prayers for you and your family at the passing of your dad. Losing someone who has loved and supported us all our lives is difficult, but God is sufficient. My favorite quote in this vein is from the inimmitable Vance Havner. A well-meaning friend expressed condolences at the “loss of his wife.” He responded, “You haven’t lost something if you know its location.” We can rest in the assurance of God’s promise of eternal life. Blessings on your trip to Ireland.”
Luis sent you a message.
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(no subject)
Hermano Guillermo, recién me he enterado lo de su señor Padre, lo siento mucho y lo acompaño en su dolor, pero sabemos que tenemos la esperanza de verlo allá en la morada que Dios le ha preparado a él.
Yo conocí a su señor padre en Arequipa.
Por favor hagame llegar mis condolencias al resto de su familia.
Luis Alberto
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This just came in via facebook
Subject: papaw gardner
“Hi Austin, just wanted to tell you how sad I was to hear about your dad passing away. He was such an awesome man. Had so many good times at their home. What a caring and kind man. I loved his optimism. I know he is happy to be home but I know his family and friends are saddened at the loss left here. So proud to have known him and have him as a friend.”