Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.  For 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. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.  1 Thessalonians 4:13-15

I am reading this verse after attending three funerals in two days.  Now, you would think that normally this could be a part of my job when it would be difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life.  Instead I feel blessed to have a small part in the celebration of a life that is finished here on earth and the anticipation of a life that is just beginning as “God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”  This letter from Paul is the assurance that we do have hope, that we do not need to “grieve like the rest of mankind.”  It is the assurance that whenever and wherever we are in this life, when God calls us to join him, we and our loved ones can be at peace.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I am at peace to know that You are there waiting.  Please help me to guide others to a faith that will lead them to peace.  Amen.