(Paul writes): Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. ~ 2 Corinthians 13:11-13
A benediction is a blessing. Paul ended most of his letters with some kind of benediction.
Paul asked for God's blessings on those receiving his letter. He asked for God's grace for those receiving his letter.
We also end our church services with a benediction. We are sent out into the world with God's blessing upon us.
Are we sending that blessing out beyond that?
What would it be like if every time we sent someone out - or said good-bye to someone - we also sent them with God's blessing.
In some ways, we already do when we say "good-bye," which comes from "God be with you."
Did you know you were blessing someone when you said "good-bye?"
Can you be intentional this week to bless those you encounter? Those you send? Those you part with?
Let me life be a benediction to all I meet. Amen