How does one appropriately mourn, nearly a thousand miles removed from our Nation’s capital and the immediacy of the day’s solemn events?
I have pondered this question ever since I read the proclamation of a National Day of Mourning for President George H.W. Bush, and especially since I learned of the closing of Federal offices in commemoration of this day. I have prayed for this family. I have watched programs chronicling the life and times of a man who, like my own father, was part of what Tom Brokaw describes as “The Greatest Generation.”
Through the miracle of technology, we have witnessed acts of great respect in the days following Mr. Bush’s passing: Thousands of people passing by the flag-draped casket; the indelible image of former soldier and statesman Bob Dole standing in salute; Sully the service dog, who appeared to understand as well as anyone in attendance the solemn significance of these moments.
Yet, the question on this National Day of Mourning was personal: How will I respond? The answer, yet another question: What can I do today to be kinder and gentler?
Reviewing the definitions of “kinder” and “gentler” as I listened to the hymns and Scriptures selected for the State funeral service, I was reminded of Galatians 5:22-23, words from Holy Scripture that I profess as a follower of Christ to love, honor, and obey. From the public domain King James Version: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
These words embody the very essence of “kinder” and “gentler.” Yet, kindness and gentleness do not come naturally for God’s creation. If ever I doubt that sad truth, I need only review Jesus’ answer to a question regarding the greatest commandment. All the law and prophets hang on the tenents of loving God with our entire being and loving others as we love ourselves.
Today in our Nation’s capital, differences of opinion and belief were laid aside for a few precious moments to honor a man whose life story is forever etched into history. The best way I can honor this day is to act upon what I have observed; to practice more carefully and completely what I believe, what I have both heard and spoken in Sunday school classes for most of my adult life.
With God’s help, I will endeavor to do the same for the rest of my days.
Copyright 2018 Sherry A. Hathaway. All Rights Reserved.
That is an excellent endeavor, and I shall do so also. Thank you so very much for putting this into perspective and into words, Sister Sherry.
Thank you, Bro. Hank!
But yet my sister in Christ . I think if you do this any better here on earth . I think not of you being here with us any more. Yes none of us are perfect. Yet to me you are working very close to it .
Thank you, my brother, but I must say that I have much to learn about walking daily by faith and God’s Holy Spirit. I am grateful His mercies are new every morning!