2023.08.18

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:22

When I reflect on this single verse, the past and the future disappear; I am pulled abruptly into the present. Yet, it is that past and that future that are ones doing the pulling.

First, the past. That past is what I was before being confronted by the cross of Jesus Christ and hearing those words, “Father, forgive him for he knows not what he does.” That confrontation happened 2000 years ago, and I realized it when I was about 25.

Now, the future. In an unknown moment in time and space, I will be greeted by the Christ with outstretched arms and a loving smile. As he embraces me, Jesus cheerfully says, “Today you are with me in paradise. Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Abruptly pulled into the present, I now hear my PAST and my FUTURE whisper in my ear, “Live; for you are to be my witness in your own present “Jerusalem,” in the regions that surround you, and to the ends of the earth… And I will be with you always.”