Au revoir, Arrivederci, Bye, Bye-bye

Two years after we met him, tonight my small group at church said goodbye to our friend Noble. What a bittersweet departure as I thought about all the small things he did so selflessly in church and how I was always the grateful recipient of his brotherly care as he always made it a point to walk me out to the car, help us move, and to always find me at the biggest gathering to say hello. It was so good to tell him all the ways we were so grateful for him, the least of which was that he is such a snazzy dresser.

As I left and walked into the night, where a slice of the buttery moon was melting into the sky, I felt a slight tug as I thought about how difficult seasons of change can be when I take my eyes off of God. Noble leaving seems like the beginning but how good to be reminded tonight that God did take me from my little dark corner where I stood aimless and stilled the troubled waters. That all along He had a plan. That while I never knew His plan, I can't say that I've ever regretted that moment that I gave Him the wheel of my rickety car.

"I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, 'You are my servant';
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:9