Most visits to family and friends end with the hope of a next time. But what about those that don't. It might be because of a conflict that arises, or illness and death, distance and difficulty in getting together, or personal decision to maintain the distance. Whatever the reason, people can still stay in touch thru letters, phone calls, Facebook or other forms of communication. But it isn't the same as face to face. Often times, without such communication, the bond is not continued. Yet, in some cases it lasts a life time. It is remembered through a journal account or photos.
In this account in Acts, Paul was very sad. He knew he had made enemies as well as friends on his journeys that brought folks to the Lord. The enemies were strong and his appearance might stir up riots or other means to destroy the building up of the churches he ministered to. So it was indeed a sad departing. But he kept up with them and communicated directly to them through his beautiful letters praising their work and admonishing them as needed. We can read his heartfelt letters in the New Testament. His advice is still relevant today. Many of us have kept special letters and cards from family and friends over the years. Parting does have special meaning and I love the fact that Paul prayed with his friends before leaving. He placed them and the future in God's hands.
"When he had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship" Acts 20:36-38
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