A Dedicated Song Sunday

Yesterday I had the honor of being asked to sing this song at a funeral. I never actual met the man who passed away, but his step-daughter and her husband are very close friends of my dad. In fact, her husband officiated my wedding. Their family means a lot to me, and I was happy to sing a song that inspires emotion whenever it is heard. A month ago we sang it for my little sister after she was baptized. I didn't think I would get caught up in the moment yesterday. I thought for sure I could get through it without getting choked up. I'd never met this man, and from what it sounds like he might not have been the nicest man ever, but as I stood in front of the congregation ready to begin, I had to pause. It is impossible to sing this song and not remember the people I have lost. It's impossible to not grieve for the family sitting in front of me. I closed my eyes, and started to sing. My voice has never quivered so much, I've never had to close my eyes to keep from seeing the tears streaming down the faces of the loved ones left behind. I knew there were people I couldn't look at, most of all my dad. I knew if I made eye contact he'd tear up, and then I would lose it. If there is one person in the world I simply cannot handle seeing cry it is my dad. There was one person I knew I count on not crying; Charming Husband. He isn't a cryer, he's not emotional, and he is even less of these things at a funeral for someone he doesn't know. So I opened my eyes and looked toward his chair. It was empty. Seriously? I'm singing at a funeral and you're MIA? I closed my eyes again, and kept them that way until I was done. I'm glad I made it through, I'm glad his widow was moved. I nearly lost it when his daughter mustered up a "thank you", eyes full of sorrow. I want to dedicate today's Song Sunday to the Gast family, and to every family who has had to hear this song at the funeral of a loved one.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.