Before Paul left Ephesus, he gave a touching farewell speech, acknowledging that he would most probably never see them again. Those who gathered were deeply moved because Paul's presence and preaching had changed their lives.
"They were all weeping loudly as they threw their arms around Paul and kissed him" (v. 37).
Like Paul, some people today sense that same Spirit urging them to make decisions that impinge on the lives of those who love them. Men and women leave cherished ones to live as missionaries in foreign lands; some enter cloistered monasteries with limited visitation; medical personnel join service organizations in dangerous situations; social workers go to help in refugee camps; military personnel depart for long sojourns as peacekeepers.
Let us pray for strength and safety for all who follow where the Spirit leads them and for those who weep at their departure.
Like Paul, some people today sense that same Spirit urging them to make decisions that impinge on the lives of those who love them. Men and women leave cherished ones to live as missionaries in foreign lands; some enter cloistered monasteries with limited visitation; medical personnel join service organizations in dangerous situations; social workers go to help in refugee camps; military personnel depart for long sojourns as peacekeepers.
Let us pray for strength and safety for all who follow where the Spirit leads them and for those who weep at their departure.
~Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M
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