I’m not a morbid person, but life, as we know it on earth, has a beginning and an end. That reality was brought home to me again when a good friend mine died. He was a dedicated Christian man and a church leader, whom I greatly admired and respected. Over the years, I observed that he sincerely tried to live by the principles of Christ, even when it wasn’t easy. As a leader, he wasn’t afraid to tackle problems head on. When the church leaders would make a decision, he would be the first to say, “Let’s get it done.” In spiritual matters, he was loyal to Christ and the word of God. As a Christian, he was very generous and he had a soft spot for the needs of his fellow Christians. In general, he set the standard high for the rest of us.
No doubt, my friend’s family and friends felt a loss when he died. But those of us who knew his faith realize that our parting is temporary. Despite our loss, Heaven has gained a new resident, and we will see him again, someday.
Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage each other with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV)
Though the death of a friend or loved one may bring us pain because of the loss, we should not feel despair, if they were in Christ. In fact, no loss in this life is permanent, because Heaven will have everything we need, including our Christian brothers and sisters.
Our hope is built on faith in God’s love, His word, and Jesus’ resurrection. That’s a very strong foundation. If we remember that whenever we have doubts about the future, it can bring us back to the place where we need to be in life.
I hope these words encourage you to be faithful to Christ in your daily walk. May they give you peace and a steadfast hope.
Remember, God loves you and so do I.
Phil
Copyright © 2010 Philip Walter