Hope In Jesus

It’s amazing how three short weeks can awaken perspective in one’s life and heart. After losing two of my very close aunts to death just three weeks to the day from each other, I realize now that on the Jones family tree that I am now the 4th oldest Jones, by birth on that tree! That just doesn’t seem possible and is sure giving me many hours of silent contemplation about life, family, future and making every moment count with those whom I love and cherish.

Something else that it is doing is making me think even more about death, heaven and the reality of what happens the moment after we take our last breath. In reality, all we truly know about those things is what scripture reveals to us, but the mind does incredible things after losing someone you love so much. I am reminded constantly to keep my hopes and dreams about the “after-life” in perspective with what God’s word teaches.

Two passages of scripture that have brought me comfort during these very difficult days are John Chapter 11 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

John Chapter 11 reminds me of the huge heart of the Man, Christ Jesus. Jesus, knew better than anyone about death, resurrection, heaven, etc., but He revealed in His response to the death of His loved one comfort, hope, peace and a loving comradery with us.

From this passage we learn at least several nuggets of hope to hold onto when we face similar times:
1. Being overtaken by illness or death doesn’t mean that God has forsaken you or your loved one. (11:3-5)
2. For the believer, death is not our final state. (11:11,25-26)
3. It is okay to grieve, Jesus did. (11:35)
4. God is in total control on the road towards death, before , during and afterwards. And even in the darkest moments He is walking right by our side and we can trust Him and hold on to the truth that what looks to us like tragedy will ultimately bring Him honor and glory. (11:38-44)

Whether I’m doing the funeral for a 2 day old baby, a 5 year old child or a 87 year old aunt, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 continues to fill my heart with hope and I pray that it will do the same for you. Here is just a portion of the passage. Take time today to read the entire scripture for yourself and be blessed.

“Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep…According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive… will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven…After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them … And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.

Pastor MJ