Here is a little background on the following little story: At the time I was separating with my then ‘wife’, starting a new job, and starting my first year in college, after having left the military. I was close to both my grandparents who lived close to our family and who I never saw often enough in my busy life. I am writing this in far retrospect, so take this for what it is worth. I am going write what I spoke at my Grandfather’s funeral in 1999 amidst the tears I stumbled out something like this:.
When I was young I made a promise as many grandsons are wont to do for their grandparents who love them and care for them so very much. I promised something that may seem a little strange to you now, but at that age anything seemingly big and responsible is cool to our green ears. At something like 10 years of age I promised my grandfather and my grandmother that I would read their favorite Psalm, the 23 Psalm, at their funeral.
I was so very young and being as such I had no real concept of time or even of death. My grandparents have been alive longer than I and even longer than my parents, and a far as this little kid is concerned they always will be. This was the sort of promise that I never really expected to have to fulfill, for it seems like they will live forever as my eternal grandparents – old and wise. So, now I have the misfortunate pleasure to read to you today the 23 Psalm:
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou annointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Thank you.
