For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. — Philippians 1:21
Isaac Asimov tells the story of a rough ocean crossing during which a Mr. Jones became terribly seasick. At an especially rough time, a kind steward patted Jones on the shoulder and said, “I know, sir, that it seems awful. But remember, no one ever died of seasickness.” Mr. Jones lifted his green countenance to the steward’s concerned face and replied. “Oh, don’t say that! It’s only the wonderful hope of dying that keeps me alive.”
There’s more in Jones’ words than a touch of irony. As a Christian, I hear echoes of Paul’s words to the Philippians. He said that the wonderful hope of dying kept him going (Phil. 1:21-23). Yet he wasn’t merely looking for relief from his suffering. Paul’s hope was rooted in Christ, who died on the cross for sinners, rose from the grave, ascended to heaven and would one day take Paul into His presence.
How did this hope of seeing Christ, either at death or at the Lord’s return, keep Paul going? It gave meaning to every moment. It gave him reason to live for Christ. It also gave him incentive to focus on others who needed his encouragement. He said, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (v. 21).
Father, thank You for the risen Christ. He is our reason for living.
— Mart De Haan
A wonderful joy is now flooding my heart,
Giving assurance that will not depart.
My Savior is living and reigning above;
Life has rich meaning because of His love. — Bosch
READ: Philippians 3:1-11
Those who are prepared to die are most prepared to live.
The Bible in one year:
• Genesis 16-19