those asleep

For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.

1 Thessalonians 4:14

“Fallen asleep”. That’s Paul’s phrase to describe believers who have preceded us in death. It is a comforting metaphor, not because they are somehow soul slumbering in death. It is a comfort because of the reality that those dead in Christ will rise again. They will return with Jesus at His Second Coming. “Asleep” implies “awakening”. It means that resurrection is a sure thing… as real as knowing that Jesus died and rose again. It is a gospel certainty.

There are times that I long to be with loved ones who are “asleep” right now. I wish for a conversation. I crave their perspective in my current confusion. I’d give anything to hear them talk about their ongoing life with Christ, in Christ, beyond death. I want a lovely hand to hold just one more time, a deep conversation with one who really knows my soul, a hug from a long gone parent, grandparent, or mentor. And so Paul’s words informing me that these loved ones are “asleep” and that a future reunion is guaranteed gives me hope. It may be cloudy today. Sunshine is coming. What I long for is real… as real as the moment I feel right now.

Lord,

I have stood by gravesides and memorials and wept. I will do so again soon. One day others will do so for me. I remember dear friends and family, my close loves, now “asleep”. With them I await Your “cry of command”, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God to sound! And I will see them again right by Your side! If I die today, I know that I too after “sleeping” will hear that trumpet and arrive alongside all of them. I do not weep hopelessly. I miss these people. I really do. I miss my sleeping family, brothers, and sisters in Jesus. Yet I hope. I smile in my tears knowing that day will surely come when remembering is changed to an awakened reality. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Amen