Saying goodbyes can be a rather emotional experience.
Especially so when we are saying goodbye to people with whom we had developed a relationship with.
Having shared experiences and memories, we may wonder if we will meet them again in the journey of life.
In today’s two readings, there was a sense of goodbye and a parting.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul told the disciples at the church of Ephesus that they may not see his face again.
But he was happy that he had left them sound teachings and warm memories in their hearts.
In the gospel, Jesus tells His disciples that He is going back to the Father.
But He will pray for them that they will deepen their faith and glorify God with their lives on earth.
As we move along in life, we will also move on and say goodbyes to those whom we have known and worked with.
May we leave fond and warm memories in their hearts, and may we also remember the life experiences they shared with us.
And even if we won’t meet them again in this life, we will have the hope that we will meet them in heaven and rejoice in God who brings us together in the eternal life.