“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21

Paul makes this statement which presents to Him and every Christian a perplexing dilemma. The whole purpose of our life is to bear fruit in the building of God’s Kingdom. And yet, the summation of all our hope is to be with Christ. Other than being here when He returns, the only way for us to realize the hope of our faith is to die.

Though our time in this world is like vapor, the legacy of God’s love through our lives will echo in eternity. Our children and immediate family are the main recipients of our love, but I know God meant for us to stretch love beyond the boundaries of blood relations to evolve into His love; a love that impacts eternity. “To love one another as you love yourself” doesn’t mean just family, it means everyone.

In this world suffering happens everyday. (Remember, Satan has authority in this world.) Sometimes in very obvious ways, other times suffering presents itself as the result of a long, hard journey taken due to bad choices. Suffering originates from sin. Many innocent are claimed in wake of pride, greed, and selfishness. Praise the Father! Jesus conquered this world and made a way for us. He has called us to be His representatives on Earth until He returns. We are the light and salt of the earth. We are his hands and feet. We seek the lost. We free the captive. We heal the hurting. God’s love sees the need, realizes the pain, and does something to help.