For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
What a mind-blowing statement. Who in the world believes that to die is to gain? To die is to lose everything you’ve worked your whole life to gain! That’s why we all take vitamins, eat anti-oxidants, and exercise. We want to push off death as long as possible.
Many people would say, “What could you ever gain in death?” Well, for Christians, you gain an escape from sin. Revelation 21 says, “Nothing unclean will ever enter heaven, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false.” No more struggling against sin. No more people sinning against you. No more of the suffering and pain that comes from sin. Another thing you gain is being like Jesus. 1 John 2 says, “We are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he returns we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” You’ll think like Jesus, and act like Jesus. And the best thing you gain in death? Being with Jesus!
As Paul says, “To live is Christ.” If you don’t anxiously and desperately look forward to being with Jesus in heaven, it’s probably because you don’t fully appreciate being with him now. So today, finish this sentence honestly for yourself: “For me, to live is ________.” What gives you life right now? An activity like running, surfing, or yoga? A diversion like the NBA or Netflix? Shopping for something new? Spending time with a particular person? Only Jesus can give you life to the full. So look forward to your life with him for eternity, and take advantage of your life with him today!