February 17 - “Classy”

Just a quick mention this morning concerning the funeral I briefly mentioned earlier.  The services were to honor what I can only describe as a truly classy lady.  It was fitting then, that the funeral experience was handled by some very classy individuals.

The representative of the church where the service was held was a young man named Ryan.  He was the site youth pastor, and I’m sure this was one of those delegated tasks that fell to him, almost a “short-straw” or “low man on the totem pole” kind of situation.  But Ryan contacted me on the phone several times before we met to iron out details.  And on the day of the service he was a consummate professional, handling preparation details flawlessly.  And the church musicians were excellent.  The vocalist was powerful, and the pianist was one of the best I have ever heard.  Thank you, Second Baptist Church, Katy Campus.

The Schmidt Funeral Home staff was classy as well.  They provided for whatever need came up with the family, and their handling of the funeral details was professional and caring.  And I have to add the cemetery staff in that one as well.  A few of the family stayed until the casket was lowered and the grave covered, so we stayed as well.  The cemetery staff showed grace and poise - and class - with their handling of some difficult tasks.  

I was even impressed with the string of four police officers who escorted us from the church to the cemetery.  In an hour-long drive through back streets and country roads to avoid freeway traffic, they showed a true respect for the funeral caravan.  In fact they demanded respect for the caravan from the vehicles of the opposite side of the road.  Often they would drive right down the center of the oncoming lane and force cars to the side of the road until the hearse had passed.  Of course, many people had already pulled over themselves, a reflection of a classy Southern gesture of respect.  

Sharon’s life was honored by lots of folks on Friday.   I appreciate that all was done to reflect the type of lady we were honoring ... classy.

Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Father, thank you for the privilege of knowing and ultimately being a part of honoring Sharon.  And thanks for welcoming her with open arms.  Amen.