2nd Corinthians 5:8 ‘Prefer to be absent from body and present with Christ’. We live in temporary temples – Bodies wear out; time is limited.
When we are absent from the body, we are present with the Lord. No Christian ever attends his/her own funeral
They are immediately present in the presence of the Lord
What does absent and present mean to our dear ones who pass away?
1) They have been Released from the Restrictions of their bodies
• Our body is the wonder of creation (Genesis 2:7). Made from the dust, given by God’s breath; that breath passed onto generations
• Fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14) – Walking wonders from the creator’s hand, examples of divine diversity, able to accomplish many things
• Yet, with limits of health, age etc.…
2) They have been Received into the Realms of glory
• Its an instantaneous change; Absent – Present; Negative – A Powerful Positive
• Death Below – Life up above
• Present with God = Arrival in Heaven. No doubts about where Jesus is. We have no doubt about where they are
• Descriptions fall short of reality – no eyewitness
3) They are Rejoicing with the Redeemed of the ages
• Meeting heroes of the ages
• Meeting those in the hall of fame
• Meeting those they led to Christ
• Best of All, - they are with their savior
Are you sure of heaven? Settle the Question Today. Life is a dash between two dates
