Chapter 1, Verse 23 “I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.”
Paul is honest with the Philippians and with us. He expresses his desire alongside his duty. What Paul has heard (voice of Jesus) and seen (third heaven) drives his desire to die and live forever with Christ. That would be a personal better. A lot of our choices as humans put us between the proverbial rock and hard place. We face a constant decision between self and others, often very close others. Husbands and wives, parents and children, employers and employees must make these decisions many times a day. What is best for me, the husband asks, or what is best for her? What is best for me, and what is best for the family. We understand Paul’s dilemma.
Paul recognized the need for serving others while also recognizing the desire he felt for himself. His quandary involves a possible sacrifice. We might well put value on such a sacrifice. We might offer up ourselves for a spouse or child or parent but perhaps not for a stranger or a bad person. “For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die—” (Romans 5:7)
Task for Today: I hope we are all working for the day we can truthfully say, “I want to be with Jesus, now.” In the meantime, I hope we are living a pro-gospel type life. Until Jesus comes what are your plans? Enjoy the good life? Sacrifice that the lost might also learn about the Savior? Look at your appointment book, your calendar, your vacation planner. Any room for the good news?
Philip Dampier's Blog 