For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Philippians 1:21-24
I saw a kid in a mall with a funny t-shirt that said “Its not that life is so short, its that eternity is so long”. It made me think that we are living on the shorter side of eternity. The apostle Paul said that his imprisonment for the sake of the gospel was actually turning out for good. Many Christians were more bold with their own faith after seeing how gracefully Paul was suffering for the Lord. Paul debated which was better, to die and be with the Lord or remain and minister to the believers in Philippi? Both had merit.
Do I feel as Paul did, that to die is actually gain? Yes, though I love the life God has given me and I find great joy in it, I know in my heart God has an eternal plan waiting to unfold. While I don’t know all that entails, I trust that God has even greater purpose, love and joy awaiting in His presence.
God, my desire to be with You goes up and down. Sometimes, I think more about the people and situations on earth than I do of my future with You. Today, let’s walk in constant communication, as I anticipate the better and longer side of eternity with You!
