Japan perhaps has got the most formal funeral ever in the world besides the States. The moment I touched down from Japan and reached my host family home, I had to wash up and get changed in the black suit which I brought along. Not long after, the “Okuribito” undertaker came and the grandmother was send to the funeral parlor. The parlor was nicely decorated and all who attended had to be in formal attire. The usual routine will then be performed and at the end of it, the MC recited a brief story with a background instrumental music of the Carpenter’s song – “We only just begun” started playing. The visiting guests are also handed a gift bag for the 1st night which is the wake. After the wake, the guest then proceeded to the 2nd floor in which a dinner reception is served.The next morning we had the funeral which the final routine is performed and flowers and gifts were placed into the coffin as people said our final “Goodbye” in which the body is then sent for cremation.
“For dust we are and to dust we will return.” Gen 3:19
Ever wonder why when the body is cremated it will be become ashes? Simply because we are made of dust.
I often questioned why so much effort has to be labored in the departure of a person be it in our cultural in Singapore or in any other countries alike? Why do we not put in more effort to show our concern in the life of others while they are still alive then?
Is there something you have not tell your love ones today?
This is my most important message to you today:
http://www.harvest.org/knowgod/
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