sf107 - Graveside Service
Scripture
Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore…. (Revelation 1:17-18)
Because I live, you will live also. (John 14:19)
Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)
Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed -- in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:50-58)
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14:1-3)
Committal
My Friends: Death has once more invaded our ranks and removed from the walks of life our beloved Sister Karen, her soul having departed to dwell in heaven with her Lord, it has become our sad duty to commit her body to the grave: Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
And our inspiring privilege to commend her soul to our Maker, Father, and Redeemer, in the confident hope of the coming again of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the resurrection of the body from the grave, and the joyous life reserved for the children of light in the realms of glory.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we acknowledge the reality of death. Although it separates loved ones, remind us that it is only for a season.
Although it brings grief, comfort us with the presence of Your Spirit and the power of Your Word.
Although it brings disappointment, grant us the faith to look to the future with hope and confidence and courage.
Father, abide with these our friends throughout the coming days, may each one experience the same grace that Karen knew.
May You grant to each one a repentant heart and faith in Your dear Son.
From the sorrow and sadness of these days fulfill Your Holy purposes and bring glory to Your Name.
For it is in that Name we pray, Amen.
Dismissal
The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Philippians 4:7, 20)