June 25, 2023: Caught Between Two Worlds

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21, ESV)

There is such a thin veil between our earthly existence and our heavenly existence. Our last breath here will be our first breath there. The apostle Paul was fully aware of this distinction. He longed to be where there would be no more suffering and no more tears. He longed to be with Christ in that heavenly realm.
    
Paul also understood that living in this world meant living for others. He longed to be fruitful for the Kingdom of God while clothed in his earthly suit. His mission remained the same as long as he remained alive: take the Gospel to the Gentiles. This is what he lived for. He knew obeying the command and keeping to his mission would bring glory to God and His Son!

Paul was caught between two worlds, which held significant advantages. In the one, he could keep collecting rewards; in the other, he would have finished his work and received his heavenly reward.  
    
We, too, are caught between two worlds. As believers, we want to be with Christ and to see Him face-to-face. We want to lay down our pain, earthly sorrows, and labors. Yet at the same time, while here, we get to live for Christ, work for Christ, and win for the Lamb that was slain the rewards of His sufferings. We will be like Paul and say, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”