To live is Christ, to die is gain.

In the book of Philippians, chapter 1, verse 21, we see the struggle (French: embarras du choix) of our elder brother, the Apostle Paul. He said, " For me to live is Christ, to die is gain". For him personally, it would be much more beneficial to die and be with Our Lord, rather than under house arrest. However, he was not putting his own interest first, but the interest of the Philippian brethren. The latter would benefit more through Paul staying alive and sharing God's wonderful Word and instructions to them. So, Paul was content to suffer for Christ and remain alive sharing His Gospel until God chooses the perfect timing for his departure to Heaven. Thanks to the apostle's obedience and submission to Our God, today, we can learn from and enjoy all his letters and epistles of eternal value.

I also want to be able to say sincerely everyday, like Saint Paul, " For me to live is Christ and to die is gain". I want to be like Our Lord, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. He asked Father God if He could avoid this ultimate suffering on the cross, nevertheless, "Not My will, but Yours be done". So be it, Lord. Amen.

Apostle Paul has joined the cloud of witnesses that the Bible talks about in Hebrews 12:1. May we, Brothers and Sisters, throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, so that Apostle Paul, the saints, the angels, and Our Triune God may all be pleased with and rejoice over us in Heaven.