My granddad never said “goodbye”; he felt the word was too final. So, when we would drive away after family visits, he always waved us off in the same way. Standing in front of the green bushes of his house, he would say, “Until next time!”

As Christians, we never have to say “goodbye” to those we love, as long as they have trusted in Jesus as their Saviour. The Bible promises that we will see them again.

Paul said that we should not “grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope” (1 THESS. 4:13). When Jesus returns, the Christians who have died will come back to life and—together with the Christians who are still alive—will meet Jesus in the air (VV.15-17). We have confidence that one day in heaven there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (REV. 21:4).

We will be with Jesus forever in heaven; along with everyone who has ever trusted Him. That’s why Paul told us to “encourage one another with these words” (V.18). Today, is there someone you can encourage with these words? Christians never have to say “goodbye”—our promised future means we can say “until next time”.

By: Jennifer Benson Schuldt

To Pray About . . .

Father, thank You for this future You have promised through Jesus. Thank You that I have Your home to look forward to!