1 Thessalonians 5:6-11

“For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him.” vss. 9-10

Paul wasn’t much of a fire and brimstone guy! Oh, he did talk about the end and the need to be prepared, but he doesn’t use the scare tactics that we find in some parts of our scripture. Here he talks about our destiny as the people of God, what some might call predestination. But his focus is on the gospel, on the good news of salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ.

And what’s truly amazing about Paul’s message is that the new life in Christ isn’t dependent on whether we are asleep or awake at the end. The good news is for all, even for those who have been living in darkness! It reflects the sense that all the world is both good and broken, and that goes for every person in it. All of us need healing and restoration, and that’s what we get in Jesus.

Of course it’s better to walk in the light and be alert to the wonders of creation. In this life, there’s nothing better, and we will want all people to have this experience. But in Paul’s own words, whether we are awake or sleeping, the salvation and healing that come through Jesus Christ are for us all.

Thought for the Day: How can I know if I’m living in the light or in darkness?