The Hope In Every Goodbye: The Promise in Jesus' Final Farewell

What Did Jesus Promise Us in Our Moments of Heartache?

Artwork by Sabrina David

Author’s Note: I first shared these reflections at church while contemplating Jesus' Last Supper. Today, I share them in memory of our friend Nick who recently completed his earthly journey. Though we say goodbye for now, may these words remind us of the eternal hope and comfort found in Christ.

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Whenever I envision Jesus' final moments with His disciples, I am reminded of the profound heartache that comes with saying goodbye.

For one, I am reminded of the day I packed my whole life into a few suitcases, said my tearful goodbyes and boarded the plane that would take me, my husband and our kids to a whole new life in New Zealand.

While a part of me felt excited, it was the most heartbreaking moment of my life. I still vividly remember my mum coming to see us off at the airport, tears streaming down her face as she hugged each of us. Though my dad joined us for our farewell dinner the night before, he chose not to accompany my mum to the airport. I just knew he couldn't bear the pain of watching us leave.

My heart grew heavier as our plane soared farther from home. I tried to sleep during the flight, but every time I woke from a nap, I found tears rolling down my cheeks.The pain of leaving felt so unbearable at that moment. 

As our plane approached the city of Auckland. I glanced out the window and was captivated by the beautiful sight below. The landscape stretched out like a vibrant green carpet, a view unlike any I had ever seen before. Instantly, a surge of awe and excitement filled me! 

I thought to myself: God must have brought me to paradise! 

Looking back now, I realise that God showed me right on the day I arrived in New Zealand how the coming days would become easier and much more bearable. And it would not be by looking back but by looking forward and clinging to the promise of seeing my loved ones again. 

This realisation filled me with so much hope that it transformed the pain of separation into a temporary pause, a brief intermission before our next meeting. This hope kept me moving forward, even on days when the distance felt overwhelming.

I imagine Jesus’ heart must have felt heavy, perhaps even overwhelmed during that Last Supper with his disciples. He was not only contemplating His own suffering but also the confusion and despair that would soon grip His followers. 

He knew the challenges His flock would face after He was no longer with them. How they would be scattered in the wake of His crucifixion. Yet, Jesus chose that moment to impart a message of hope through the symbols of bread and wine. 

"This is my body, broken for you. This is my blood, poured out for many." 

That’s not all that He said.

Jesus also made a promise,  "I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new with you in my Father’s Kingdom (Matthew 26:27-29, NLT).

Jesus gently reassured His disciples that their farewell was not the end. Amidst the pain and sorrow, He promised a reunion. One day, they would be together again, never to say goodbye. Jesus declared, “I will not drink this wine again until we are reunited. Only then will we celebrate (Matthew 26:29, paraphrased).

This statement offers hope of a future reunion, a joyous celebration and an eternal life with our Saviour and Lord.

Let this be the prayer that comforts your heart whenever you have to say goodbye.

Heavenly Father, teach us to hold onto the hope that in You, no departure is final and every goodbye is just a step closer to an eternal reunion.

May the words You spoke on Your final farewell remind us of the joyous homecoming that awaits us—a gathering without end where every tear is wiped away and our joy is made complete. Help us to live in the certainty of Your love and the promise of Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Cindy

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