I love the beginning chapter of the Book of Philippians. Paul opens with his greeting and immediately flows into a passage of gratitude and prayer for his readers. Then he talks of his imprisonment and how even that works to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Paul has no idea where his imprisonment in Rome will lead. It may lead to freedom; it may lead to death. In verses 21 to 26 he wrestles with those two options. He reveals his heart in verse 21. “For me, living is Christ and dying is gain.” [CSB]
For the Christian, Paul’s options are our options. In this world, Christ Jesus is our life. When we leave this life, we will gain even more for we shall see our LORD and King face to face in all His glory. We shall enter a life that is completely free from sin, free from temptation, free from pain, free from fear, free from dying. We shall abide eternally with the One Who Died For Us.
But until that day comes, we have a purpose to fulfill. We have a certain number of days to achieve that purpose that have already been determined for us. Whether we are weak or strong physically, young or old, man or woman, educated or not, rich or poor, God calls us to live for Christ.
How that command works out in our individual lives is not what is most important. We may not be able to do much more than pray for others, give a kind word to someone, or offer a smile in the name of the LORD. Maybe all we can do is live our life joyfully in Christ during trying circumstances as an example to others, but, that will be enough.
What is truly important is that we do it!
