Either way

There’s a lot of craziness going on in the world today.  And what makes it worse – or seem worse – is when you or a loved one faces some trial or issue that you didn’t see coming.

Like COVID.

As I get older, I tend to think a lot more about people than I do about “things.”

I also think about nearing the end of my life.  Now I’m not about to kick the bucket, (as far as I know!!), but I’ve been thinking about Eternity.   I look at my family and friends, and as I pray for them, I pray they will find Jesus, and I try to live my life as an example of knowing Him.

Sometimes I don’t do such a great job, but I keep trying.

Paul talked about the end of his life, and he said “²⁰ I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.   ²¹ For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.²² If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! ²³ I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far…” 

Then he told the church in Philippi “but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. ”  (–Philippians 1) 

As much as Paul looked toward and yearned for meeting Jesus face to face, he faithfully ministered to others, knowing that “fruitful labor” would be the result of his time on earth.

In 1991 Laura Colston Lewis and Trina Curtis wrote a song called “I’m a Winner Either Way.”

A loved one knew he’d reached the end of life’s journey
But he’d been holding to God’s hand a long long time
And as I knelt beside his bed
My heart was thrilled at what he said
If I go or if I stay the victory’s mine.

I’m a winner either way if I go or if I stay
For I’ll still have my Jesus each passing day
I’ll have my healing here below or life forever if I go
Oh praise the Lord I’m a winner either way

None of us really know about tomorrow
We must prepare to go to heaven any day
But while we’re here let’s trust the Lord
He’ll lead us safe to our reward
And by his grace we’ll be a winner either way

Oh praise the Lord I’m a winner either way