Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Cor 15:20-22)
Years ago, Irish writer and scholar, C. S. Lewis (1898–1963), was dying of kidney disease. After visiting a friend, Lewis crossed the street in London, and shouted, “Christians never say ‘Goodbye!’ In eternity there will be time enough and we must talk of a thousand things when you come.” Lewis believed Christ’s teaching about Heaven and that encouraged him, even as he was wasting away! Likewise, my friend Gloria is a Christian widow with strong faith. People ask her, “How are you managing since you lost your believing husband?” Gloria always answers, “Richard isn’t lost. I know right where he is. He’s with Jesus! He’s safe in the arms of Christ!” She trusts Bible truth and the Lord encourages her!
Jeremiah Rankin (1828-1903) wrote the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again”, knowing that our English word “Goodbye” is a contraction of “God be by ye” or “God be with you.” Rankin’s song develops this thought and asks Christ’s blessing on our brothers and sisters in Jesus’ family. I use this hymn in Adult Sunday School class when members move away and when believers are near to dying.
Here is the hymn for your study and in service to others.
1. God be with you till we meet again, By His counsels guide, uphold you,
With His sheep securely fold you: God be with you till we meet again.
Chorus: Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet;
Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again.
2. God be with you till we meet again, ‘Neath His wings securely hide you,
Daily manna still provide you: God be with you till we meet again.
3. God be with you till we meet again, When life’s perils thick confound you,
Put His loving arms around you: God be with you till we meet again.
4. God be with you till we meet again, Keep love’s banner floating o’er you,
Smite death’s threatening wave before you: God be with you till we meet again.
Since Christ has made full atonement for the believer’s sins and obtained remission for us, death can no more harm us than a wasp whose venomous sting has been removed, though the wasp may still buzz and hiss and attempt to disturb us. (A. W. Pink)
Prayer: Lord, remind us that life here on earth is brief and help us live with your eternal life in mind. Help us seek first your kingdom and your righteousness and believe that you will give us all that we need in this world and in the world to come. Help us not to worry about tomorrow, but to trust and obey you step by step, day by day, until we see you face to face. We pray in Christ’s name. Amen.
Go in peace, beloved. Walk with King Jesus today and be a blessing to others!