To Live is Christ, To Die is Gain

How would you like to be remembered? If you passed away, or even if you simply moved away, how would your neighbours or co-workers remember you? What would be some ways in which they described you? What stories would they tell? What memories would they share? If you could eavesdrop on a conversation about what people thought of you would you like what heard, or would you be embarrassed or ashamed?

For Paul, I think he would be happy with what people would say. The guards who watched over him probably would say something like, “No matter what we did to him, he was happy! He was even fine with dying!” For those trying to slander him, or get him in trouble they’d likely say, “As long as people were hearing about Jesus, he was happy. Even if it meant that he got into more trouble with the Romans.” Others might say, “We ridiculed him, beat him, almost killed him, and still he kept praising Jesus!” Jesus was the focus of his life — everything revolved around serving God, and bringing glory to Him. That was what mattered the most.

So what would people say about you if you were gone? What is your defining characteristic? What is the subject you talk the most about? Are you joyful, even in the middle of frustration? Are you loving and caring? Do you bring peace and comfort?

This Sunday we will be looking at a passage of Philippians that has one of the more popular verses in Scripture — to live is Christ and to die is gain. Paul had the attitude that no matter what happened to him, Jesus would always be first and foremost in his life. Could this be said of you? On Sunday we will learn how he was able to say that, and see how we can apply that to our lives. Our gathering begins at 6pm – hope to see you there!

This Sunday is also our first year anniversary! It’s incredible to think The Centre Community Church is already one year old! Praise God for how He has provided for us and opened doors for us to serve the South End of Lindsay. Please come out and celebrate with us. There will be cake!

Pastor Mike