A New Location

Read: Philippians 1:12-26

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. --- Philippians 1:21

The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 15-18

A bank in Binghamton, New York, had some flowers sent to a competitor who had recently moved into a new building. There was a mixup at the flower shop, and the card sent with the arrangement read, "With our deepest sympathy."

The florist, who was greatly embarrassed, apologized. But he was even more embarrassed when he realized that the card intended for the bank was attached to a floral arrangement sent to a funeral home in honor of a deceased person. That card read, "Congratulations on your new location!"

A sentiment like that is appropriate for Christians, because they move to a wonderful new location when they die. They go to be with Christ, and the sorrows and heartaches of this earthly existence are gone forever. Near the end of his life, Paul said that to be with Christ is "far better" than to remain on earth [Philippians 1:23].

Yes, separation is painful, but as Christians we do not grieve as those who have no hope. Rather, we can rejoice, even with tear-filled eyes, because our loved ones have taken up a new residence in heaven.

Whenever believers in Christ die, it would be appropriate for us to say to them [if we could], "Congratulations on your new location!" --- Richard De Haan

Someday my earthly house will fall ---
I cannot tell how soon 'twill be;
But this I know --- my All in All
Has now a place in heaven for me. --- Crosby

DON'T DRIVE YOUR STAKES TOO DEEP --- WE'RE MOVING IN THE MORNING.