Sermon for Luke Woodson Funeral

Opening

Unless Allison reads it, read obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Luke Bradley Woodson (Oakland, TN), born in Little Rock, AR , who passed away on September 15, 2021, at the age of 46. He is survived by his wife Allison Woodson. Three sons Gage Woodson, Daughton Woodson, and Tristan Bullock. Two daughters Meghan Wilson and Gabrielle Woodson. Son-in-law: Nathan Wilson. Nine Grandchildren Aubrey, Kloie, Kallie, Gunner, Gabriel, Conor, Ryder, Gracelynn, and Gatlynn. Luke is also survived by his mother Denise Woodson and his two siblings: Austin Woodson and Tabitha Woodson. He is predeceased by his father Finas B. Woodson. Luke will most be remembered by his profound love for his family. He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. He touched the hearts of many people and his legacy will live in our hearts. Luke served as military police officer and went on to retire as a Memphis police officer. He was a very dedicated man. He dedicated his life to serving his country to the fullest.

I sat down with the Luke’s family on Saturday and we began the difficult process of deciding what in the world we would say to memorilize a man that meant so much to so many.

This quickly turned in to story time. There were a bunch of stories.

Some heart warming, most funny, some probably too inappropriate to share here, but all told the story of exactly who Luke was. Here’s my synopsis. As i sat there listening to each story, I kept thinking, MAN I Really wish i could have known this guy. I didn’t know Luke. I dont believe we ever met. But let me tell you, he leaves a heck of a legacy.

Heres a few words that came out of Saturday.

Veteran, MP in the army, left a legacy of MP soldiers (some army as well, but all military), strong leader, Memphis PD, Ironically with as much junk as he had deal with over the years in military business and just being a cop in Memphis, these were some of the other words that were spoken.

Likable, caring, family man, humorous, helping/servant, loved family, dedicated, reliable.

For almost an hour straight, I heard nothing but these types of things. To me, its just as important to be able to love your family well as it is to protect them well. And That is commendable.

I want to leave you four things today, to hold on to.

Life is short and fragile

Whether we are strong or weak, whether we think we have everything figured out or not, whether we are financially sound or a total hot mess, life can change at a moments notice. I would love to tell you that there was some way to make ourselves be total invincible, but its just not true.

The bible says in James 4:14,

Not only is life fragile, but also,

2. Death is certain

Someone once said that the only two things certain in life are death and taxes. I dont know about the taxes part, but the bible does say quite a bit about the death part.

Heres a couple of them.

Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 ESV

1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

Hebrews 9:27 ESV

27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,

We cannot get around this fact. But heres the good news. The good news is that even though life can fall apart and we all must die one day,

that

3. God is good

Listen to what the bible says about God’s goodness,

Psalm 34:8 ESV

8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 ESV

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

So God is good,

And because he is good,

4. He invites us to take comfort in him

1 Peter 5:7 ESV

7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Matthew 11:28 ESV

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Hebrews 4:15–16 ESV

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

I know so many different emotions will be flooding your mind and heart in the days, and months, and years to come. I encourage you to hold on tight to the Lord, for he will comfort us

Will you pray with me?

Father,

We do not understand why this has happened? Theres so many things going on in the world around us that we really do not understand. I know you are still there. I know you are still Good. Father I pray that you would bless this family with overwhelming peace and comfort in the hard days ahead. I pray that they would look to you and that they would find everything they need in you. I pray that you would comfort Allisons heart. Father she is hurting so bad right now. God comfort her, i beg you. Do not let her feel forsaken. God, allow us all to be found with faith to cast all our cares upon you, and let us find you just like Psalms says, a refuge and strength and a very present help in trouble.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

At this time, we are going to play one more song, so listen as we remember Luke Woodson.

Graveside Service

2 Timothy 4:7 ESV

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Isaiah 41:10 ESV

10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.