In the Footsteps of Jesus #27

Scripture: 1 Thessaloninas 4:13-18

¹³Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. ¹⁴We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. ¹⁵According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. ¹⁶For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. ¹⁷After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. ¹⁸Therefore encourage each other with these words.

"WHEN HE COMES"

Thousands of curious stone boxes litter the slope of the Mount of Olives. What are they? Grave markers. Since the time of the patriarchs, the Mount of Olives has served as a massive cemetery. And not just for Jews either. There are sections for Muslims, as well as Christians. All three major religions agree that when the Messiah comes or comes again He will stand upon that hillside and call the dead from their tombs.

As we walked among the thousands of stone markers, I tried to imagine what that day will be like. The archangel’s shout, the trumpet blast and Jesus coming on the clouds of the air. A day of great joy and great terror. Overwhelming joy for the saints of God as they greet their returning Savior. Mind-numbing fear as the wicked come face to face with their Judge. Worship and wailing blending in a chorus of praise to the King of Kings.

Friends, let me share a truth with you. You will be there. Everyone who has ever lived will be gathered on that day. The question is not whether or not the dead are raised. All will rise on that “great gettin’ up morning.” No, the only question to be answered is where you are headed. And that question will be decided one way or another before you die. Now is the time to settle your eternal destination.

Question: Are you ready for that day?

Prayer: Come quickly Lord Jesus! Amen.