When there will be no more good-byes.

Two days ago we said good-bye to our dear Manna who is moving to southern Norway. Our apartment will not be the same without her.

Before the final good-bye, a celebration was in order. We played our instruments...

and sang. All to the glory of God who both gives and takes.

Soon, there will be no more good-byes. Soon, there will be eternal communion. Soon, we will not miss anyone. Soon, all will be unified and made right.

And so, I am thankful that good-byes come with bitterness. For they are only a reminder that we are, in fact, not yet home.

"The only ultimate disaster that can befall us, I have come to realize, is to feel ourselves to be at home here on earth. As long as we are aliens, we cannot forget our true homeland."

-Malcolm Muggeridge, Jesus Rediscovered