1 Thessalonians 4:13. But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.
The distinctive twang of banjos floated through the air as we entered through the doors and into the Southern Ohio Indoor Music Festival. We were immediately enveloped in the charged atmosphere as we searched through the packed auditorium for a few empty seats. While scanning the audience, acquaintances greeted us as if we were good friends, and some amiable strangers made room for us to squeeze into a corner where we could settle in and comfortably view the sights and sounds.
Through the rest of the evening we were treated to talented musicians playing and singing the music of the hills. As I listened to song after song I couldn’t help notice how so many songs were about a sad subject – death – and yet there was not an attitude of sadness in the crowd. Continuing to listen more closely I believe I know why. The songs, though not always completely Biblically accurate, were filled with hope for a beautiful future even after the parting death causes here on this earth.
Paul, in writing today’s verse, knew that death was inevitable for all people and yet he wanted to encourage his brothers that they did not need to grieve in the same way as others in the world do. He informed them that those loved ones who die with Christ as their Savior go home to heaven to be with the Lord. They are safe and happy waiting for the day when all who trust in Christ will be reunited in a wonderful new place where there will never again be crying or pain. God promises that those who put their faith in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, though sad for a time, do not say a final goodbye. It is only a “See you later.”
What should we do when someone we love passes from this earth? Yes, we will grieve, but not like the world with no hope. God will encourage us and over time we can continue on serving Him as we wait for that day when we will be reunited with our loved ones in heaven. Together we will again sing songs of praise to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Our sad “Goodbyes” will turn into glorious “Hellos” and who knows – as we stand together around the throne of God we might even sing a few down home bluegrass songs.
And I believe there’s a place called Heaven
And I believe in a place called Calvary
I believe in a man his name is Jesus
And I believe that he gave his life for me
I was there the day my Mama went to Heaven
I held her hand as she closed her eyes to sleep
I felt the power of ten thousand angels
Take her soul away to be crowned at Jesus feet
And I believe in a place called Calvary
I believe in a man his name is Jesus
And I believe that he gave his life for me
Dailey and Vincent
Love this perspective and the truth that we never need to stop hearing.