Sound Of The Trumpet

Sound of the Trumpet

(Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)

Stephanie was propped up against her pillows as Mother came into her room, Bible in hand. They always read together before Stephanie settled down to go to sleep. Tonight Mother read from 1 Thessalonians. “Mother,” said Stephanie when they had finished reading. “There are lots of things in the Bible I don’t understand—like what you just read. What does it mean, about trumpets sounding and dead people rising in the air?”

Mother smiled. “That’s what we call the ‘rapture’ of the church,” she said. “It will happen when Jesus comes to take all Christians to heaven.”

“What about the dead coming out of the graves? Will Mrs. Evans come out of her grave, too?” asked Stephanie. “It all sounds so strange.”

Mother smiled. “It’s going to be a wonderful day!” she said.

Stephanie shuddered. “Brrrr . . . doesn’t sound wonderful to me! Sounds spooky and scary! I hope it doesn’t happen for a long, long time,” she said anxiously.

“Why does that make you so afraid, honey?” asked Mother.

“Because it’s spooky!” exclaimed Stephanie, pulling the blankets close around her. “It gives me the creeps to think of seeing the Lord suddenly in the middle of the night!”

“Stephanie, tell me,” said Mother, “will you be afraid to see your friend Mrs. Evans again?”

“Afraid to see Mrs. Evans?” echoed Stephanie. “I can’t wait to see her! I loved her, and I know she loved me.”

Mother spoke quickly. “You’re not afraid to see Mrs. Evans because you loved one another. It is the same with Jesus.”

Stephanie looked thoughtful. “I guess so,” she admitted.

“You see,” said Mother, “for those who love Jesus with all their hearts, there’s nothing scary, or spooky, about his coming.” HCT

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Will you be ready if Jesus comes today? He may come at any moment—morning, noon, or night. Only those who have given their hearts and lives to Jesus will rise to meet him. Talk to a trusted friend or adult to find out more.

Be Ready for Jesus’ Return

MEMORIZE:

“You also must be ready all the time. For the Son of Man will come when least expected.” Matthew 24:44