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

Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don't know which one I should choose.

I am torn between the two. 

I long to depart and be with Christ - which is far better - but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound.

Philippians 1:21-26 CSB

For the first time in his letter we get a glimpse of how tough it is for Paul. He's had a face-to-face encounter with Jesus, so has a real glimpse of heaven. 

And here he is locked down in a Roman jail.

No spring weather to enjoy.

No supermarket run.

No neighborhood walks.

No Netflix.

He'd rather be with Jesus face-to-face again. 

And some days we know exactly how that feels right?

Paul also wrote that his life is not his own, and while desiring to be with Jesus, there is the call to serve and love people here and now that trumps his desire to be with Jesus.

He acknowledges the desires of his heart, the challenges of this life, and chooses to follow Jesus' call on him in this life.

Good to be able to express all those things with someone who can hear and hold those things:

Our hearts desires

The challenges we face.

Jesus' call.

Find someone safe to share with, and be that safe person in someone's life.

#belikePaul

#loveGodlovepeople