The Apostle Paul records in scripture the pain he felt at the loss of coworkers (2 Timothy 4:16). There is often sadness, sorrow, disappointment and a sense of loss when people in our congregation or circle of Christian friends leave us with only memories.
Unfortunately, there are those who have left, that God would have wanted to remain. Perhaps gossip, misunderstanding, an unfortunate incident or doctrinal issue was not dealt with in a compassionate, appropriate and forgiving manner.
There are also those who are no longer a part of our lives or ministry and that separation is within the will and purpose of God. Perhaps God has prompted them to serve Him elsewhere or employment provisions require it. On the other hand, God may lead a person or ministry in a direction that some would resent. Then, like Barnabas or Paul, we go our separate ways (Acts 15:2). Eventually, we must accept the separation.
Despite losses Paul still had very long term relationships with Luke, Timothy, Aquila and Priscilla. More importantly, there is the lifelong nearness and refuge of the Lord Himself (Psalm 118:8).
Calvary Chapel of Richmond is a local fellowship of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. Our supreme desire is to know Christ and be conformed to His image by the power of the Holy Spirit through the continuous study and application of God's Word.
