I attended my uncle’s funeral this weekend. He was 96 years old. He passed away peacefully. God Bless his soul.
There was and still resonates within, a solemn joy as I gathered with family members far and wide to remember and celebrate his life. My uncle’s life was a testament of love, devotion and strength.
It was the (his)story of a man who moved with his young family to live in a new country. He immigrated from Hong Kong to Canada in the 60s. Like many new immigrants, he worked long hours to provide for his family so that his children can have a good educational experience. He laboured long hours as a chef, yet found the time to have quality time with his family.
His life was a living testament of perseverance and strength, as well a role model of infusing both traditional Chinese values, while respecting Western ones.
He encouraged his children to aim for higher education and careers.
Funerals is a time of mourning and of celebration – yes, this very idea is somewhat contradictory. It is an occasion which brings together families and friends – from far and wide.
Together it is a celebration of a long-lived life, of a devoted husband, loving father and a grandfather who doted on his grandchild. It was of an uncle who was always caring of his relatives, and an elder within our family clan. He will be dearing missed by all.
Now he is resting in peace after suffering and labouring through many years of illness and multiple surgeries – his suffering on earth has ended and now he is embraced in the arms of Christ Jesus.
The legacy of his life rests within the hearts of all whose path he’s crossed – engraved forever within.
My uncle was the eldest member of our family clan in Canada. He was the centrifuge which brought all of us from different parts of the county together – whether it was for a wedding, birthday, and sadly this weekend for his funeral.
So often we ask the why’s, without realizing that in hindsight, God always has his hands in the pulse of our lives.
For me, there was a joy within to see all my aunts, cousins, nieces, siblings, and extended families with whom I have not seen for many years. It was a heartfelt occasion filled with love, support, and well wishes.
May God continue to bless each and every member of my family clan and extended family.
Prayer for Those Who Mourn
Lord God,
you are attentive to the voice of our pleading.
Let us find in your Son
comfort in our sadness,
certainty in our doubt,
and courage to live through this hour.
Make our faith strong
through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
Lord,
[Name of the deceased] is gone now from this earthly dwelling,
and has left behind those who mourn his/her absence.
Grant that we may hold his/her memory dear,
never bitter for what we have lost
nor in regret for the past,
but always in hope of the eternal Kingdom
where you will bring us together again.
Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
May the hand of God Bless and guide each of us to live with joy, love and strength. 🙏💕
Be Inspired! 
Leave a comment