READ: Phil. 1:22-26: But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again.
Paul writes: “I have the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.” His communion with Christ means everything to him. He is willing to sacrifice everything for it.
Even in this earthly life, that communion is already present through Christ’s Spirit, making life on earth completely different. But after death, that communion will be even fuller—then he will be with Christ in heaven.
Paul’s longing is not about escaping suffering but about being with Christ! Being with Him is by far the best, the most beautiful thing one can imagine.
Paul does not despise life on earth, but he has an intense longing for Christ. Here on earth, he can serve Christ, which is the highest calling. But in heaven, he will serve Christ perfectly. There, he will join all the saints in singing perfect praise to God and Christ. There, he will be able to glorify Christ’s name even more.
However, Paul also realizes that by remaining alive, he can still serve the churches. He writes letters to strengthen them in the joy of faith, to the glory of Christ, and he may even visit them again. If Christ makes it clear that his life should be dedicated to this task, then Paul accepts it—even though his personal desire is to meet his Savior in heaven.
Here, we see the secret of the Christian life: we live differently on earth, and we have a different perspective on death. Like Paul, we do not and should not make these choices ourselves—God does.
How do you view life and death?
Sing: Ps. 16:5