1967) I have written these one-minute devotions since 2019 and have really loved it. It has given me an opportunity to search through the scriptures from a new perspective. I’ve also “discovered” gems in verses I’ve previously skipped or skimmed for various reasons. One such verse is John 5:28.  

Here, Jesus is talking about himself and his relationship with the Father. He tells the people there is a time coming when the dead will hear his voice. Verse 29 continues to tell us the deceased will rise from the dead, those who are his will love eternally with him and those who have not accepted his gift of salvation will be condemned.  

This verse sticks out to me because I hadn’t seen the events of these verses so clearly in my head. Yes, I’ve read about the dead in Christ will rise first (1 Thessalonians 4:16) but, for me, this verse in John and the picture I have in my head brings me comfort.  

When I know a loved one, who is now in the grave, was a follower of Christ, he or she will one day rise and take their place in the company of God himself.  

Perhaps it would be prudent to listen to his voice now, before the grave.