What was in the mind of Apostle Paul when he said, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain”? Why such a statement in his epistle to the Philippian church? I pondered for a few moments and attempted to put my feet into the apostle’s shoes (or sandals as you may say) and tried to visualize. I reviewed Philippians 1:21 to 26 and came to a simple and clear conclusion.
Yes, I said. It would be far better for me to pass away because I will be once and for all be with my Creator in a state of peace and happiness. No more joy, no more pain, no more problems, no more bills to pay. On the other hand, I still have work to do in this world. Work to bring more people to the saving power of God. Work to tell the world that once upon a time, God took the form of man, was crucified on the cross for the sins of the world, died on that same cross, and was resurrected from the dead on the third day. Indeed, for me to live is to do what Christ wants me to do. To do the work that He started. The same work that He Himself will finish.
At this point, I felt what Apostle Paul felt. I am in a crossroad - on one hand is doing God’s work and the other hand is to be with God Himself. But what? Where should I go. Ahhhh, it doesn’t really matter. One way or the other, I will glorify God. So as long as their is life in me, I will continue to do everything that God tells me to do until the day I die.
How I pray to God, a request from the bottom of my heart, to allow me to die while in service to Him. No, I don’t want to die in bed or in a place of physical comfort. How I desire for Him to call me while I’m on duty. Am I afraid of death? No. Am I afraid of life? Not either. Wherever I go, I know God is there and thus there is nothing for me to fear.
God bless you all…
“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.”
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