It’s not really goodbye; it’s till we meet again.
Seeing friends and loved ones off on a long journey isn’t easy. Parting is painful if we’re unsure when we will be reunited face-to-face.
What if there’s the chance of never seeing them again?
Some keep the proverbial stiff upper lip as they attempt to hide emotions. Others keep tissues and hankies handy. Sad farewells are mingled with promises to stay in touch. Leaving, the travelers begin with mixed emotions. They are excited but sad as they reluctantly say goodbyes.
Missionaries experience many send offs at bus and train stations, airports and sea ports. They have been called by God to serve; many live on foreign soils. It becomes their home away from home but a part of their heart remains behind. Apostle Paul’s departed with prayer support.
“When we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left, sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload her cargo. And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem. When we had come to the end of those days, we departed and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed. When we had taken our leave of one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home (Acts 21:3-6 NKJV).”
Till we meet again…