Questions have arose regarding the resurrection. Remember that most early followers of Jesus thought they would not see death before Jesus' return. When some died, there was worry as to what this would mean. Paul's letter assures them that the promise of Christ will not be impeded, simply because they happen to die before Christ returned.
Paul also helps them to see that life in the resurrection will be different from life as they now know it. Dr. Sittler, one of my teachers, mused just before his own death that life had been so wonderful he could not image that the resurrection would be disappointing - BUT, he admitted he had no idea what that resurrected life would be like. He would tell us that as much as some would like to claim otherwise, there is no precise picture given of what life is like for us on the other side of resurrection.
I do not write these words in order to challenge images of eternal life rooted in your heart or mind. Rather I offer these reflections for the sake of those who are unsure or questioning or worried. I would also acknowledge those who have not had such a wonderful life, perhaps even been the victim of abuse. My prayer this morning is that any anxiety about what happens at death might be eased. Paul tells us that there can be no heavenly body till the earthly body is ended. We will need to turn lose of this one, to get the next.
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