This last Monday, one of my mother’s cousins passed away. He lived two houses down from us. Mom had told me that he was living in
We spoke regularly and he talked a lot about growing up in
My mom passed away almost 8 years ago. I had the blessing of singing at her funeral. A song that she had sung many times before: In My Father’s House are Many Mansions. Since that day in October of 2000, I have not sung that song again, though I have sung at many funerals since.
After mom’s funeral, Norris called me up one day and told me how much he loved hearing me sing and asked if I would be willing to sing at his funeral. I assured him that I would be happy to do so. Over the last few years, he would call me occasionally and remind me of my promise.
Two months ago, he called again and let me know his time was short and wanted to make sure I was still ok to sing. Once again, I let him know I would be honored to sing as I had promised
On Monday afternoon, his wife called to advise me of his passing and asked that I sing “In My Father’s House”. Though I had not suing it for some time, I consented, as I had promised, thinking that after 8 years it couldn’t be too tough.
Arrangements were made and I got together last night with the lady who will accompany me. All went very well as I worked through the first of the song. Then, as I neared the end, my mind was filled with a vivid recollection of mom’s funeral, and I lost it. I finally worked through the whole song and I think it will go well tomorrow. As tough as they sometimes are, vivid recollections are not always a bad thing……
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you;
Not as the world giveth, give I unto you.
Let not your heart be troubled neither let it be afraid.
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.
I will come again and receive you unto myself;
That where I am ye may be also,
That where I am ye may be also;
And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
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