Far Better by David Jeremiah

Thursday, June 28 Far Better    Having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Philippians 1:23    Washington’s National Gallery of Art has four paintings by Christian artist Thomas Cole, entitled, “The Voyage of Life.” Each of the four panels shows a different stage of life—childhood, youth, manhood, and old age. The last is particularly tranquil: an older person on a boat accompanied by a guardian angel under the dark skies pierced by brilliant sunbeams.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:21-26

We never know if we’ll make it through these stages, for life is uncertain. But Cole understood that for the believer, death wasn’t something to be feared but anticipated. While we want to tarry on earth in service to God, the voyage of life inevitably takes us upward into heaven, “which is far better.” Death is certain for all. Denying it does no good; it doesn’t change the reality. We must be ready at any moment. Jesus came for one great purpose: “that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (Hebrews 2:14-15, NIV). How important to know Him as our Savior and Lord! How wonderful to enjoy His presence throughout the voyage of life! Christians never say “good-bye”; just “until we meet again.” Woodrow Kroll