One of the unique and solemn privileges of being a pastor is sitting down with the family of a deceased loved one to take in a concentrated dose of eulogy—“good word”—about the recently departed. In these times the family reviews commonly known features of the person’s character and unearths rare anecdotal jewels that form a sparkling composite of their beloved. These are poignant times of joy, gratitude, and love amidst the sorrow of loss. [ . . . ]  [read more]