We all know the pain of saying goodbye. Death leaves an empty chair at the table, a familiar voice we miss, and a longing to see our loved ones again. The Christian faith does not ask us to pretend that grief does not hurt. Instead, God gives us a sure and living hope. In 1 Thessalonians 4, God promises something far greater than a vague hope of a spiritual life beyond the grave. Jesus Christ has died and risen again! When He returns, the dead in Christ will rise, and all His people will be gathered together with Him forever. Death does not get the final word. Jesus does!