Hope in Christ

"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!" Philippians 1:21-22 (NIV):

As Paul wrote these words to the Philippians, he was under house arrest in Rome, uncertain of his fate. Yet, his faith in Jesus Christ remained unwavering. Paul’s conviction was that Christ would be magnified whether in Paul’s life or death. In life, by living as a shining example of Christ, dedicated to sharing the good news and serving others. His potential death for the cause would bring glory to Jesus and place him in the immediate presence of the Lord.

As Christians, we share in this hope. We have no reason to fear death because of the promise of Jesus Christ. Our lives are opportunities to serve and honor Him, and our deaths are entrances into His eternal presence.

I am reminded of the lyrics from Joe Diffie's song "Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)," in which he sings, "Lord, I wanna go to Heaven, but I don't wanna go tonight." While we treasure our earthly lives and the opportunities to live for Christ, we also look forward to the promise of Heaven.

In verses 27-30, Paul encourages us to live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ. We are called to stand firm in one Spirit, striving together for the faith of the gospel. Even in the face of opposition and suffering, we are to conduct ourselves in a manner that honors Christ. This shared struggle and steadfastness in faith serve as a testament to our salvation and our strength in God's grace.

May we, like Paul, embrace our lives as chances to magnify Christ and face death with the assurance of His eternal promise.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the hope we have in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to live our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel, standing firm in faith and sharing Your love with others. May we, like Paul, embrace each day as an opportunity to serve and magnify Christ. In moments of uncertainty and trial, remind us of Your promise and fill our hearts with the assurance of Your eternal presence. Lord, we ask for Your strength and grace to face each day with courage and faith, knowing that we belong to You, whether in life or death. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim