The heart of the study of 1 Thessalonians is “Jesus is coming again!” While many can get caught up in when and how the second coming will occur, it is important to know that Jesus is more concerned with the who and with what we are to do until then. Paul knew that the Thessalonian believers were fearful because they were suffering and separated from those they loved. Paul wanted to reassure them about the second coming, and also give them a gracious theology of death so they wouldn’t live in fear. Death is a gracious gift that ushers us into God’s presence. If we have chosen to follow Christ, then we are a part of God’s family. When we close our eyes in death, we will lift our hands in life to experience a glorious reunion with Christ and those who have gone before us. We will also receive a new body. Until He returns, Christ desires for us to encourage everyone we encounter to be ready for His coming. It is impossible to follow Him and not share this amazing news with others—today could be the day of His return!