Funeral or Circus?

Jesus told a parable about a rich man and his poor servant Lazarus.  The rich man had all he needed and then some and was stingy with what he’d been given.  His servant Lazarus was barely given bread to eat.  Both men died.  The rich man was in agony (Hades) while Lazarus was in a far better situation (Abraham’s bosom).  It’s an interesting way that Jesus chose to describe these places, but that’s another discussion for another time.  The rich man came to the realization that his situation could not change.  But he begged for Lazarus to return and warn those he cared about not to go to that place.
As I’ve watched clips and read headlines of funerals of two famous people who died in recent days, it’s worth reminding ourselves as to why we have funerals/wakes/memorial services,etc.  We do it to help us grieve the person who is now gone.
If you are among those who will die one day (that’s you and me in case you didn’t know), make your will, settle your affairs as much as possible, have life insurance, record some thoughts on what could possibly be said at your funeral (be as little a burden as possible on your family), but understand that it shouldn’t matter so much as to how it all goes down, who showed up, and who didn’t show up.  By that point, your situation will be greatly improved and you won’t be thinking about this world or you will have greater problems than anything you’ve ever experienced or expected.  Be concerned about where you and others end up, even your greatest adversary or enemy.
If you are a part of someone’s funeral, it’s not an occasion to take shots at anybody.  It’s not about using that occasion to push an agenda.  How is that beneficial?  To my fellow Pastors, when called upon to be a part of such an occasion, remember your calling.  Don’t be part of a circus.