Saying, “See ya later.”

I learned a couple of weeks ago about an older gentleman who passed away. I had only known him for about twenty years. He was always smiling and had such a sweet, gentle spirit of God about him. He was very positive in his attitude and way of life and very encouraging, too.

He was the kind of man that you never minded being around. When I met him, he had already aged. Wrinkled skin, and what hair he had was grey. If there were ever an “Adopt a Grandparent” program, he would be the first man to be picked. Hearing of his passing was difficult to accept, but knowing that he was now in heaven and that I was prepared to go there myself, I knew I would see him again. So I didn’t have to say, “Goodbye,” but instead said, “See ya later.”

If you are ready to stand before God and know that your sins have been forgiven by accepting Jesus Christ into your life, and a person you know has, too, then you have the hope of seeing them again. But if one of you has not accepted Jesus, then when death occurs, you or they will never be seen again.

I never did find out when his funeral was going to be, so I didn’t attend. But a few nights ago, I had a dream with him and his wife in it. The atmosphere was nice and sweet. The sun was shining very brightly, and the birds were chirping. We were trying to get somewhere but had trouble finding the correct path that would lead us to our destination. The three of us laughed at our struggle and kept trying.

When I woke up and recalled the dream, I had a good feeling in my spirit. I knew it was me saying to him, “See ya later.” Then, watching him walk ahead alone, leaving his wife and me behind.” I’m glad I had the opportunity to know him and spend the time we had together.

I thank my God upon all my remembrance of you, Phi. 1:3 (ASV)

And regarding the question, friends, that has come up about what happens to those already dead and buried, we don’t want you in the dark any longer. First off, you must not carry on over them like people who have nothing to look forward to, as if the grave were the last word. Since Jesus died and broke loose from the grave, God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus.
1 Thes. 4:13-14 (MSG)

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