Evang Ps. Kenneth Nandoha
But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus, we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A Hopeful Perspective on Grief:
Paul begins by addressing the Thessalonians’ concern about those who have died in Christ. He urges them not to grieve as those who have no hope. This instruction is a powerful reminder that our hope in Christ transforms the way we approach grief. As believers, we mourn with an undercurrent of hope, knowing that death is not the end.
The Foundation of Our Hope:
The foundation of our hope lies in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul draws a parallel between the death and resurrection of Jesus and the future resurrection of believers. Just as Jesus rose from the dead, those who have died in Him will also rise when He returns. This is the bedrock of our hope – the assurance that death is not final, and reunion with our loved ones awaits us.
The Glorious Future:
Paul vividly describes the future event when the Lord Himself will descend from heaven. The imagery of a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet of God paints a picture of a grand, triumphant return. The dead in Christ will rise first, followed by the living believers, and together they will meet the Lord in the air. This glorious future is the culmination of our hope – eternal communion with the Lord and with one another.
You don’t have to wait for hours, days, months or years in order to make a choice to receive the salvation of our Lord, its now or never, rise up from the pits of sin to life eternal in Jesus Christ. Today is the day of salvation, confess out that sin, believe in the Lord asking Him to forgive you and assuredly, He will forgive you and finally use you for the glory of His name, Amen.
Today’s Blessings:
Heavenly Father, in moments of grief, I find solace in the hope that You’ve given us through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank you for the assurance that death is not the end for those who believe in You Lord. May this hope shape the way I navigate grief and loss, reminding me that a glorious reunion awaits me in Your presence. Comfort me with the certainty of Your promises, and help me to share this hope with others who are in need. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
