Short words for a graveside

Friends, we stand here with tears, and that's right. But hear what Paul says: so that you don't grieve like the rest, who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). We grieve, yes. But not like that. Our tears have a floor under them, and that floor is an empty tomb. Listen: For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:14). Notice the word "asleep." Not lost. Not gone. Asleep, and safe in the hands of a Savior who has already walked out of a grave. So we commit this body to the ground and this soul to God, in the sure hope of resurrection. This is goodnight, not goodbye. Let's pray. Father, comfort this family. Hold them close. Keep their eyes on the risen Christ, in whom our dead are safe. Amen.