Yesterday, we began the process of saying good-bye to departing students. Over lunch, stories were shared. Among these departing students are the last who remember our meals in the LCM Lounge. They shared how much things have changed in the span of five years.
But regardless of where we take our meals, and no matter who was there to share them, the same Christ has been our host and the same Spirit has been among us. This message was well received by the incoming Leadership Team who met last night to shore up plans for the fall semester.
There were tears shared yesterday. But also a great deal of pride. Those departing are heading off to teach high school math, to guide youth at camp (Church camp and Scout camp,) to design new products, and to build great buildings. The planet we all share will be a better place as a result of the departing class of 2012.
I offer this morning's reflection in order to give us all permission to continue the process of saying good-bye. We need to learn to mimic Jesus' style, from the Gospel of John. Saying good-bye involves remembering, highlighting, and expressing a hope for the future. That future will be directed by God, as was our past. That future will bring other opportunities to experience community founded in God's goodness.
Say good-bye well. Do not shy away from the sadness associated with it, but neither should you allow your sadness to overshadow the hope which permeates the relationships which are now coming to an end. That hope remains our hope for what God will do in our lives, next.
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