“Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:20b-21 (NASB)

The Apostle Paul dedicated his life. from the moment of his conversion to belief that Jesus was the promised Messiah, to work for the exaltation of Jesus Christ. Another version uses the word ‘magnified’ to describe Paul’s main purpose – this is the glorification of Christ. So Paul could say “For me to life is Christ and to die is gain.” After years as a prisoner in Rome, his appeal pending before Caesar, he was at a fork in the journey of his life.  On one hand, he knew he could be martyred. He was ready for that. Or, he might gain his freedom (we don’t know the details). He did not fear martyrdom  and saw benefit for others if he remained. Paul declared either outcome, Dying or living, Christ would be magnified. Both of these options, continuing to live for Christ, or gaining his access to glory through dying would result in Christ being glorified. This is to what God calls us in our lives. As believers we’re promised that dying is a glorious thing, and remaining alive on earth is opportunity to bring glory to Christ through our obedience and service. It is a win-win situation.

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