“For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Phil 1:21
If our faith is real, we will have the same perspective as the apostle Paul. While still alive on this side of heaven our life mission and focus should be on serving Christ. Paul introduced himself in his letters as “A servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God.”
Romans 1:1
His life focus while in the flesh was to constantly be on mission for the Lord Jesus. He encouraged others to have the same perspective: “If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.” (Serving Christ) Phil 2:1-2
Yet, on the other hand, Paul longed to be in the presence of the Lord; “For we walk by faith not by sight. In fact, we are confident, and we would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” 2 Cor 5:7-8
For Paul, living on earth meant serving Christ Jesus and leaving this earth would place him in the Lord’s presence. He could therefore proclaim with confidence: “For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He did not fear death but in a way longed for it.
What a great perspective to have. To know, to believe, to faithfully serve Christ in this life is a blessing and to die is also a blessing. Life or death as a Christian is a
win-win! Therefore, in serving Christ Paul’s mission had a particular focus. Yes, he preached, he taught, and he wrote extensive letters (13 in our New Testament). But all of that was for the salvation of others. “I have become all things to all people, so that by every possible means I might save some.” 1 Cor 9:22
Many have said they believe they are heaven bound; they are just not ready to go just yet. They would like to see their kids grow up, graduate from college, get jobs, have children, grandchildren and so on. But does any of that really matter? All those accomplishments are temporal. Like Paul, our focus should be on the eternal – salvation for all. As long as God allows us time on this earth let us be on mission – serving Christ Jesus – for the eternal not the temporal.
Blessed by you…. Bro. Sherman
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