Death VII
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. (I Thessalonians 4:13 ESV)
Grieving
Some cultures have admired grieving so much that they would hire professional grievers. Some Christians grieve today with intense sorrow… and grieving our loss, our unsaid comments, the faltered plans of those who seem to die too early, or just deep pain that continues.
I am in no way belittling such real sorrows.
But… but… but… we do not grieve like the world. We do not grieve like those without the sure hope of the gospel. We do not grieve like those who do not believe in a Sovereign God who is working in ALL things for the good of His people, because of His immeasurable love FOR His people. Even in death.
If heaven is grand, how can we resent the arrival there of saints who have died? If the Lord’s presence is so desirable, how can we fail to be excited for His people who are enmeshed in Him, now? If death has been altered to become the gateway into eternal life, how can we become despondent?
Grief is improved by hope. Grief is altered by hope. Grief is fixed by hope.
And what an opportunity to preach the gospel, even without using words