Articles
The Saddest Farewell
This is an event in the life of Jesus that sends many thoughts surging through my mind, thoughts that begin with the truth that the saddest farewells we ever have to say in this life are those in which we must bid farewell to someone we love dearly as they shed these earthly bonds. Just as it was with Mary and Martha, our hearts are made heavy and tears flow unbidden from our eyes and our hearts are overwhelmed with grief.
I pray we all understand that just as it was with Mary and Martha, as a child of God we can turn to Jesus who knows and understands our struggle (Hebrews 4:13-16, Psalms 62:1-2, 1 Pet. 5:6-7). In him we will find the strength, courage and peace we need to keep us safe as we continue our journey down the pathway of life (Phil. 4:6-7, Romans 8:28, 31.35-39). Each day I live today, the words of Isaiah 4:28-31 take on greater meaning for me, “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.”
I love to sing, “The tempest may blow and the storm clouds arise, obscuring the brightness of life. I’m never alarmed at the overcast skies, the Master looks on at the strife. Living by faith in Jesus above, Trusting, confiding in His great love. From all harm safe, I’m living by faith and feel no alarm.” Putting ourselves in the hands of Jesus, trusting and confiding in him, the heart overwhelmed with grief is made lighter when we consider the eternal glory that one day will be ours (2 Corinthians 4:17).
Charles Hicks, Gallatin Tennessee
