Amen

By Marilyn Travis

We most often use the word “amen” at the end of a prayer or hymn. The word Amen is Hebrew and it most commonly translates as verily, truly, or so be it.

This past Sunday, as you know, was our last Sunday to worship with Bruce as our pastor and with Susan playing the piano. It was a bittersweet experience because we are happy for Bruce and Susan and we want Bruce to have a rich and wonderful retirement. At the same time, we are brokenhearted. Saying goodbye to loved ones is always difficult and heart wrenching.

As these thoughts and mixed feelings were swirling around in my mind, I came across a hymn our choir used to sing at the end of our church service. It is We Say Amen, by Pepper Choplin. The lyrics are fitting.

 

We Say Amen

Our time together comes to a close,

But still the power of God’s Spirit flows,

And will continue flowing even when

We say amen, we say amen.

 

May God surround you with holy care,

And may you feel God’s presence everywhere.

And though this prayer for you will never end,

We say amen, we say amen.

 

God’s presence is not a time or space,

The Spirit knows no bounds.

So even though we may leave this place,

We know God’s presence will be found.

 

Friends let us go out courageously,

I’ll pray for you, now, will you pray for me?

Until the day when we will meet again,

We say amen, we say amen.

 

Amen!