Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 – This past week within our extended family we experienced a tragic death. Something sudden like this is never easy to navigate for those who lost a loved one, yet what comfort can the words of scripture be for the believer when death is in their face. For the follower of Jesus, death is very different than for the one who does not follow Jesus. Setting aside debates about end times and the Rapture that this passage brings up, all believers ought to be able to look at this passage and see the beautiful reality ahead for us. Death is not eternal blackness or annihilation, it is eternity in the presence of the Lord. For those who choose to obey the Lord’s word about placing their faith in Jesus Christ death is simply a transition from life to real life in the presence of Jesus. Let such truth be an encouragement to you today if you too are navigating a grief connected to the loss of a loved one. If they knew Jesus as their Savior, the joys of scripture we read about they are enjoying to the fullest at this moment. They are blessed with being face to face with the Lord. They are no longer in pain and no longer in waiting. They are with Jesus. For those of us who are still here, navigating this pain of loss, dwell on these words of scripture and never cease to share the Gospel with those who don’t know it yet. For while these encouraging words are what’s to come for those who follow Jesus, eternity is very different for those who don’t and the Lord desires no one to experience that. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 3528
Question To Ponder: How can dwelling on the reality of Heaven help ease some of the griefs we feel?
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