The purpose of Memorial Day is to remember those who have passed on. We are especially mindful of those who gave their lives so that we can live in freedom. We also honor family and friends who have died, often by visiting their graves. Some people may be facing a tearful trip to the cemetery. The apostle Paul writes these words of encouragement to those who need hope for the next life.

“Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

These are encouraging words indeed! This Memorial Day, maybe there is someone in your life who needs to be reminded that we know Someone who specializes in empty graves.