What do I think about this? Just this: since Christ is proclaimed in every possible way, whether from dishonest or true motives, I’m glad and I’ll continue to be glad. I’m glad because I know that this will result in my release through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. It is my expectation and hope that I won’t be put to shame in anything. Rather, I hope with daring courage that Christ’s greatness will be seen in my body, now as always, whether I live or die. Because for me, living serves Christ and dying is even better. If I continue to live in this world, I get results from my work. But I don’t know what I prefer. I’m torn between the two because I want to leave this life and be with Christ, which is far better. However, it’s more important for me to stay in this world for your sake. I’m sure of this: I will stay alive and remain with all of you to help your progress and the joy of your faith, and to increase your pride in Christ Jesus through my presence when I visit you again. (Philippians 1:18-26, CEB)
I want to know if Paul is contemplating what he may be considering here.
“But I don’t know what I prefer.”
“I’m torn between the two…”
“I want to leave this life and be with Christ, which is far better.”
“However, it’s more important for me to stay in this world for your sake.”
Is Paul considering taking his own life? It is far better to be with Christ, but I need to be here for you, so I won’t leave this place.
He is in prison and beaten up. He does decide, “I will stay alive and remain with all of you to help”.
As we wait it is hard. We will be weighed down by life and circumstances, but all of us form the community that shows God’s love to the world We need each other and we are not the image of God without each piece.
Stay. Know you are needed.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 