For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21)
Lois had just had cancer surgery and was contemplating alone. Previously he had faced death, but all of it was the death of his loved ones and not himself.
He suddenly realized that losing a loved one was scarier for him than the possibility of losing his own life. He was curious. He remembered that he had asked himself before undergoing surgery, Am I ready to die? His immediate answer from then until now was, Yes, I'm ready. Christ is my Lord and Savior.
Armed with readiness for his guaranteed death, he now only needs to concentrate on living. Will he live that death with fear or faith? Then it is as if God said, I have saved you from eternal death. I also want to save you from a life full of fear. Isaiah 43: 1 comes to mind, Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name, you are mine.
Now Lois testifies, Yes, I am His! This fact is more important than the doctor's statement that I have cancer. Then he added, I win under all circumstances, whether I live or die!
Lois' view is an echo of Paul's words in today's reading, Because for me to live is Christ and to die is gain. Let us pray that those words will resonate in our hearts. Such confidence will make us win in all conditions -JEY
WE CAN REALLY LIVE IF WE ARE READY TO DIE
*) Take from Daily Devotional