A herd of deer was grazing in a green pasture in a National Wildlife Park. A tiger attacked the herd and killed an old female deer. Her fawns also ran away from the helter-skelter. In a few minutes, the tiger finished its fresh meal and left. Meanwhile, the rest of the herd went grazing the pasture as if nothing happened. There was no mourning or burial or rituals. For animals, death may have some sentimental sadness, but nothing else. However, humans are created in the image of God.
Fears: Most people are afraid of death, but Lord Jesus Christ has delivered the disciples from the fear of death. (Hebrews 2:15) The fear of death is the fear of the unknown. Those who are not sure about the afterlife, they fear.
Spirits? There is also a wrong belief that people when they die, become spirits or angels or gods or even demons. The living fears the dead people, as they imagine they are active and powerful in another realm, yet to influence the present world. There is one life, death ends it and there would be judgment. (Hebrews 9:27)
Last enemy: Paul writing about the significance of the resurrection, described death as the last enemy for humans. (I Corinthians 15:26) Since, Lord Jesus Christ demonstrated his authority over death, believers have hope of resurrection and privilege to reign with Him.
Christian Confidence: Believers have firm conviction that they will leave this world, to live with the Lord forever. This conviction and confidence provide comfort for the near and dear ones. They understand that those who die before us, rest in His presence and will meet them again. Like David, disciples could assert that they will have the opportunity to go to heaven and see them again. (II Samuel 12:23)
Different mourning: Paul writes that Christians mourn differently, not like those who do not have the confidence of eternal life with the Eternal God. (I Thessalonians 4:13) The mourning is sadness, pain, and emotional turmoil, and there is no despair or confusion, or restlessness in the inner person (soul).
Am I scared of death?