“Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18
Life on this fallen earth can get pretty grim sometimes. Wars, famines, disasters. Poverty, injustice, oppression. Suffering, financial ruin, illness, injury, disability, and death. These ongoing and often tragic experiences are why Christians are told to remind and encourage each other about our future in Christ. So we won’t give in to despair and won’t give up, even when life is very, very difficult.
Jesus WILL come back to judge and renew creation. Those who have died in Christ WILL rise from their graves and meet Jesus in the air as He returns. Every believer who is alive when Jesus returns WILL also meet our returning King in the air. We WILL always be with our Lord. He will usher in perfect justice for all and the renewal of creation.
These middle chapters of our world and our lives can be hard to stay encouraged and Christ-like through. Remember how the story ends! In a renewed paradise. In the eternal presence of the Lord. In a world without tears, pain, sorrow, or grief. In a world lit by the glory of God—Father, Son, and Spirit. In a place of life, peace, joy, and satisfaction free of creation’s present curse. In the company of angels and all who have called on the name of Lord Jesus to save them throughout history.
That’s the future. It WILL happen. Stay encouraged and use the time between now and then well. Live humbly, confidently, and peacefully in the Lord. Grow in holiness. Delight in drawing ever nearer to God. Make disciples. Share your hope in Christ and serve Him well. #FollowJesus