Thursday, November 5, 2026

Scripture

“We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13

Reflections

Faith shines in the darkest of places.

An elderly Christian lady is in failing health at the hospital.  She is aware of what is happening.  She is surrounded by friends and family members who care for her.  They too, are aware of her impending death.  Finally, that moment comes.  She deeply gasps for her last breath.  She passes from this life in the hands of her loving Lord Jesus.

The friends and family members are deeply grieved.  At the same time, one of the family members turns to another and says, “But we do not grieve as those who have no hope.”

There is a night and day difference between those who grieve in the hope of the resurrection and those who do not.  For those who believe in the resurrection, death is merely a gate through which one passes from life to life.  For those who do not believe, death is their greatest nightmare that has no end.

As followers of Jesus, we are given the assurance of life beyond the grave.  As Jesus has been raised from the dead, so too, do we live with that sure and certain hope.  Death is not the final word.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the gift of life in Jesus.  Help me to share this certain hope with others who live terrified of death.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18