LONG-AWAITED REUNION

LONG-AWAITED REUNION

READ:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

We who are alive and remain
shall be caught up together with
them in the clouds to meet the
Lord in the air.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:17

As a boy, I had a collie named Prince Boy, a great dog that I really loved.  One day, he disappeared.  I didn't know if he had been stolen or if he had simply run away-but I was devastated.  I searched everywhere.  In fact, one of my earliest childhood memories is of climbing a tall tree from which I could scan our neighborhood in hopes of spotting him.  I desperately wanted my beloved dog back.  For weeks, I was always watching and hoping to see Prince Boy again.  But we were never reunited.

There's a much greater sense of loss when we think we'll never again see a loved one who dies.  But for those who know and love the Lord, death's parting is only temporary.  One day we will be reunited forever!

Paul assured the Thessalonians, "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" (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).  The words that provide comfort to the grieving heart are together and we.  These words of reunion indicate that followers of Christ don't ever have to experience permanent separation. For us, death is not a goodbye; it's a "see you later." -Bill Crowder

We'll be reunited one day
With our loved ones who have died
If they know the Lord as Savior-
Then with Him we will abide. - Sper
******************************
God's people never say goodbye for the last time.

INSIGHT
The believers in Thessalonica were fascinated with the anticipation of Christ's return.  However, Paul understood that holy living is also important, not just correct prophetic understanding.  He exhorted them to live a life that is pleasing to God (4:1-2).  Because sexual immorality was prevalent in their culture, Paul urged them to holy living which avoids immorality (v..3-8).  And although heirs was a very loving fellowship, he encouraged them to excel all the more in love (vv. 9-1).  Paul then emphasized the importance of a Christian work ethic (vv.11-12).  With these practical considerations addressed, the apostle provided illuminating insights into the future return of Christ.  Likewise, Peter cautioned that prophecy should not be taught for the sake of knowledge itself but to motivated us to holy living (2 Peter 3:10-12).

Have a blessed day.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace