Saying Goodbye

Saying Goodbye

     Last month I wrote about communicating.  We continue this month with a discussion about specific times in life when saying goodbye is not only important but necessary.     

     There are times when we need to say goodbye.  At times when a job change requires a move, a number of goodbyes are shared.  At times financial difficulty demands a move and again goodbyes are necessary.  Sometimes a parting of ways happen between friends when differences occur.  At times a move is a happy time and other times not so much of a joy.

     Last month we paid tribute to a cousin of ours who had a stellar ministry career as preacher, administrator, leader, visionary and encourager and supporter of our ministry.  It was a joyful celebration reflecting on his life committed to sharing the good news of our savior, Jesus the Christ.  It was a precious time with family and friends of years past.  A time to say goodbye.

    In the past three weeks we celebrated the 70th wedding anniversary of a cousin.  The next week his wife died and a week later he died.  We live close and were able to say goodbye to the wife because she suffered a stroke and could respond but not talk.  The next week he died overnight, a total shock.  We were looking forward to spending time with him, making the news of his death a complete shock.  These folks were all heaven bound.  It is comforting to know we will reunite someday in heaven for eternity.

     The day before his death we attended the memorial of the Brides Maid at our wedding some 54 years ago.  Her goodbye was very special.  Two weeks before she entered the presence of her creator we visited her.  We learned some important things about saying goodbye.  We entered her room ~ she brightened up and thanked us for coming to see her.  She said, “I want to say goodbye, but of course it is for now; we will spend eternity together in heaven”.  We visited for a while and she needed to rest because her brother was coming.  She managed her time with distinction until the very end.

     Driving home from her memorial we texted and called a dear friend who was with her dying husband.  As we talked, he smiled.  He said he was ready to go to heaven and he got there 36 hours later.  What are the take aways from these goodbyes?  First, know where you are going like all of these people did.  Pay attention to those closest to you.  Love them and tell them you do.  Life is short and eternity awaits.  Know where you will spend it.  Accept Jesus as your savior because he is the path, the only way to heaven.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not parish but have eternal life.”
    John 3:16 NIV