PODCAST
Teach Us, O Lord
April 24th, 2014
Psalm 90:1-12
It was one of my most difficult funerals. I barely knew the deceased. I had spoken at funerals for two of his brothers. None of them regularly attended my church: Charlie never.
Charlie was a drunk. He died at 42 from complications brought on by his addiction. He was far more comfortable on a bar stool than a church pew.
The day of the service I stood in the crowded funeral chapel. The air was cloudy with smoke from the cigarettes of mourners whose nerves and addiction could not break for even this solemn occasion. Many were red faced and bleary eyed, having fortified themselves with several drinks before the funeral.
God led me to share the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15). I described the father waiting patiently for his son’s return. Unplanned, I said, “Sometimes the Father waits and the son doesn’t return.” My heart broke and tears flowed, “However, for those who will, the Father waits with a ring, a robe, and restored relationship.”
I stood by Charlie’s casket as the mourners passed. “O Lord,” I prayed, “Teach us to number our days.”
Author: Duane C. Brush
