Bye, Bye, Now...

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” John 14:1-3 ESV  

A couple of months ago a co-worker and I were discussing language (part-time anthropologists that we are) and the way we greet and say goodbye to others. The conversation was prompted by one of our church members, Anna Meier, often ending her phone calls with “bye, bye, now…”. I’ve only heard one other person use this form of farewell and we were speculating on the deeper meaning. Is it cultural? Passed down through families? Brian, my co-worker, suggested maybe “bye, bye, now” can mean “goodbye, for now, but I look forward to seeing you again”. We both agreed that it lent an air of warmth to the interaction.

Now that Anna is gone, I’ve been thinking about her form of farewell this week. I think of her service to Eastridge and its members, her service in the Lincoln community, and her devotion to her family. The affection and kindness conveyed in her “bye, bye, now” parting sentiment are fitting. And as Christians, our belief in the hope of the resurrection means that death isn’t the end. So, not “goodbye” but “bye, bye, now…”: until we meet again.

Prayer: Dear Lord, be with us in our grief. Help us to remember your promise of eternal life. Comfort those who are mourning the loss of loved ones today. Amen.

Donna Gustafson (reprinted from January 2020, shared again today in honor of Anna)

Words from Scripture: Good People

The fool hath said in his heart, there is no God. Anyone who talks like that is warped and evil and cannot really be a good person at all. Psalm 14:1 The Living Bible

You are capable of doing good and loving others.

So, what is it that a Christian is supposed to do? There are multiple Bible verses which explain what we need to do:

Good people delight in God’s holiness. Psalm 37:23

This is especially true when we see the Christ child in the manger at the wonderful time of Christmas. He came down as a babe in a manger to save us. Thank you, Lord.

Good people bask in the delight of GOD and want nothing to do with devious schemers. You can’t find firm footing in a swamp, but life rooted in God stands firm. Proverbs 12:2-3 The Message (The Bible in contemporary language.)

Good people secure their children. Proverbs 13:22

They take care of their families and guide them to love others and Christ Jesus.

Good people are satisfied with life. Proverbs 14:14 and the backslider gets bored with himself; but the godly man’s life is exciting. Proverbs 14:14 The Living Bible

People who follow our Lord and his commandments enjoy happiness.

Good people love wisdom. Matthew 12:35

Learn as much as you can. God wants you to grow in wisdom and be there for others.

Good people are just people. Luke 23:50

They are just like you, follow the law and are fair to others.

 Good people are full of faith. Acts 11:24

Good men who are full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, will admire and rejoice in the grace of God bestowed on them. He has angels watching you and acting to care for you.

Prayer: Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for these instructions and your grace and care for us. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

Happy New Year

Start the New Year with prayer.

Some scripture on prayer: 

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2

Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. Jeremiah 29:12

reprinted from January 2024