A DESIRE TO DEPART!

A DESIRE TO DEPART!

Phil 1:21-23

21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. [rather, I can’t decide my personal preference!]

23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

          Was Paul suicidal? If he had given voice to these thoughts he might be hauled off to some clinic to be examined by some bearded and austere Psychiatrist. As George Bailey said in the 67-year-old classic It’s A Wonderful Life, “suicide is against the law around here.” Clarence, my favorite bungling angel, said: “It’s against the law where I come from too!” So we are careful not to say “I have a desire to depart.”

          For George Bailey and, at times, for many of us, it is not a wonderful life. It is a miserable life. Even for Christians there are pressures and trials that make us want to finish the course ahead of time. Our culture is becoming more violent and twisted. Our politicians are corrupt and inept and we pay them to be. Nothing is simple anymore – everything is confusing, difficult and complex. Like a mother about to give birth there is a strong urge to “push” to end the labor and the pain.

          Paul found reason to remain in God’s purpose and presence. In verse 24 he simply says that it is better for the Philippians’ if he remains with them. Paul understood his need to fulfill his calling. As a matter of fact, that is exactly what Clarence showed to George Bailey. He said: "Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole.”

             God's people are in bondage because of the limitations of the body and the temptations of the flesh, but death will free them. Or they will be freed at the return of Christ (Rom 8:18-23). Of course, nothing can steal a man’s joy and resolve to live if he has Philippians 1:21 as a guiding principle. “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

          What keeps you going? Philippians 1:21 is a good test of our driving force. Fill in the following blanks and you will learn much about yourself. “For to me to live is ________ and to die is ________.

Dear Lord, give definition to our calling and purpose for today. Comfort all those today who feel a strong urge to “push.” AMEN