Farewell and Godspeed

Over the past year or so, I have said (or will soon say) "Farewell" to quite a few people whom I have known for years.  In some cases, it is people who have died.  The good news is that these people died in the Christian faith and I can look forward to a joyful reunion in the heavenly kingdom.

Others have moved or are about to move to locations that make reunions on this side of heaven unlikely.  

I have told my catechism classes over the years that friends come and go throughout life.  Family, however, usually remains with you even if they are distant.  They think that this is particularly sad.  I assure them that this is just the reality of life.  Well, it is sad when friends must part.

Nevertheless, when friends move away, it is usually because of opportunities which are beneficial, and it is hard to be sad about that.  So, while friendships may be disrupted by distance, our fondness and prayers for one another remain. 

Last night, Laura and I bid Farewell to our dear friends, Pastor Geoff & Becky Kieta who are leaving Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Livonia and moving on to St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Menomonie, Wisconsin.  Pastor Kieta and I were a year apart through school, though we were at best acquaintances then.  We have enjoyed each other much more over the past 15 years while they were here.  

To our friends who must depart, we say Farewell and wish you Godspeed.  While our friendships are cherished, God's faithfulness is better.  Pax vobiscum.  (Peace be with you.)