"Leaving"

A lot of life is leaving,

Hellos and then good-byes,

Joy and lots of laughter,

And times we have our cry’s.

‘Cause babies don’t stay babies,

They grow up and move away,

And every time it happens,

You bow your head and pray,

That they will find someone to love,

And life that’s blessed and sweet,

Chase their dreams, do what it takes,

To overcome defeat.

The grandkids, you remember,

Are growing like a weed,

So do your best to love on them,

And give them what they need.

‘Cause very soon they too will go,

Surprise you with good-bye,

To go and live out of the nest,

You pray for all their try.

People whom you counted on,

Decide to move away,

Some don’t even stay in touch,

But you learn to be okay.

‘Cause some were never with you,

Even though you thought they were,

And either way it’s in His hands,

Though not what you’d prefer.

We say good-bye to those who die,

Though they leave an empty space,

That only the Good Lord can fill,

With His amazing grace.

And in the end we say good-bye,

To this old life and world,

Go through the gates of splendor,

God’s banner then unfurled.

The gift of life eternal,

Is what this life’s about,

And when we say good-bye for good,

His face we’ll see, no doubt.

“I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life…” (1 John 5:13, NLT)

We all have to say our good-byes, but when this life is finally over, we believe in eternal life. These words from John the apostle bring great comfort to us. He writes so that we may know we have eternal life. What he is saying is that this should not be a “hope-so,” “think-so,” or “maybe-so" kind of thing. This should be something that we know is true, giving us an assurance and confidence when we face death. There are far too many people who struggle with this issue, when God wants to give them peace about it. It’s a huge part of our inheritance as God’s children. Let the Lord make you sure.

Lord, please give us assurance that we have received eternal life, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Ann Hanson, used by permission. Thanks, Ann, and God bless you.