Because Reunions Are Precious

We’re in Revelation this semester in RUF, and the most common theme that’s been driven home about what we take away from Revelation is that we are living in the time of tribulation. The time between memory and hope. Between what Christ has done for us and the promise that He has made to us. We live in the in-between.

I think this has been very applicable to life as a senior in college. The hope for the future is strong in my heart, and the memories of college years past have pervaded my mind, but as of now, I am stuck. I am stuck between the beautiful hope of the future, and the pervading memory of the past. But I am not living those things now, I am between them. I am stuck between a no-longer, and a not-yet, an awkward period of finishing and beginning. A middle ground, where everything is and isn’t. There’s no better description than that it is a time between past and future, memory and hope.

This weekend, an old friend came into town, our intern from the past two years who made a lasting impression on all our lives. And the reunion was sweet. Two of my friends and I met her at a local mom & pop shop, and when we saw her walking toward the coffee shop we rapidly pushed out our chairs and quickly raced to the door to greet her. The hugs and the squeals that ensued were beautiful. The smiles and the joy in each of our eyes was a vision of the glory of God. The time we were able to talk and be with her was sweet. Just knowing that she was back, even if just for the weekend, gave me peace. It seemed like all was right with the world.

I believe reunions are a picture of both hope and memory, colliding at once. They bring back sweet memories from times past, and allow us to hope that the future will bring more sweet reunions. Something to help us endure this life in between. Something that shows us how beautiful memories are and how much has changed. Something that makes us think of the future and when reunion will come again. It is precious. We cherish it, we relish in it. It is a gift from God to help us endure this life in between. It gives us hope now and makes the in between beautiful.

The feelings that ensue from such sweet moments show us what Christ has done for us in bringing love, community and relationship into our lives. They glorify God, and just a small piece of how much He loves us is revealed. Relationships are sweet, and reunions are glorious. The love of God has permeated the beginning, the end, and even the in between.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guards your hearts and minds in Christ –Phillipians 4:7