Whitney Houston - Link to LIVE Funeral Coverage

[n david]

Watched all 4 hours of Whitney's funeral. Was only going to watch a few minutes, then was drawn in because of Donnie McClurkin, Bebe & Cece Winans, Tyler Perry, Bishop TD Jakes, and Bishop Marvin Winans.

Donnie McClurkin's song "Stand," was perfect for the family and friends. The congregation was standing and many were worshiping during the song.

While Donnie sang and everyone worshiped, the "Reverend" Jesse Jackson stood with arms crossed, looking as confused and lost as could be. I thought it sad and ironic that the "Reverend" seemed to not be feeling the same spirit of God that most others there were feeling. He's become so political, that he cannot feel nor understand the moving of the spirit anymore. While MLK Jr talked of being on the mountaintop, the "Reverend" Jackson seems too content to remain in the valley.

Tyler Perry. Someone should take Jackson's title and give it to Mr. Perry, because he said more in 7 minutes, than many ministers say in 90 minutes of preaching. I had no idea Tyler Perry spoke so well. I'm a big fan of his stage plays and movies, but was not prepared for the expository message he gave. And it was the word, too, not just fluff.

Bishop Jakes. He's always good. I loved his message that death has not won.

Kevin Costner had a good speech. It must have been intimidating having to follow the rousing messages and songs by the ones before him, but he did very well and had a lot of interesting stories. His stories of growing up in a Baptist church were funny and helped lighten the moment. The story of how Whitney won the role for "The Bodyguard" movie was intriguing.

I'm still surprised that FoxNews, CNN, MSNBC, BET and E!Tv stayed with the funeral during Bishop Winans' message. He spoke on priorities, gave an example of someone who has a car and doesn't read the manual. A quote I've seen repeated a lot is this, "God had a purpose before he ever created a person." His message wasn't about Whitney. In fact, other the the beginning, I don't believe he mentioned her name. His message was aimed at her family, friends and others in the audience who have not yet decided to live for God -- thus the reason for his comments on how people mistake living for God as being boring or dull.

A lot was said about an upcoming moving Whitney had a role in, "Sparkle." Several mentioned that she was trying to mount a comeback with the movie, trying to cut cigarettes and other things from her life, and wanting to get help with her voice.

Michael Jackson was ready for a comeback with "This is it." Whitney Houston was preparing for a comeback with "Sparkle." Tragically, both were taken before it could happen.

Life doesn't guarantee you a comeback. You are not guaranteed tomorrow. You better live your life and follow your dream now, because you may not get another chance.