WHAT/WHO IS IT ABOUT?

            What are we living for? Who are we living for? Some may view themselves as living for their family; seeking to support and please them. Others may view themselves as living for their boss; always focusing on their work and how pleasing their boss may inch them up the ladder of success. Then there are those who live merely for themselves; doing and reaching for whatever they think will make them happy. However, even when living mindful of due responsibility within relationships and what is personally offered to enhance them, this can all be done without a focus beyond life in this realm. Yes, there is great significance to our life presently, but the here and now is not all there is to our existence. Therefore, our focus needs to be centered on the One Who is part of our origin (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2) and through Whom we have the hope of everlasting life (Titus 3:4-7).

            In a section of his letter to Christians at Rome, Paul addressed some improper judgments being made when the focus was too much on self. Therefore, he noted where the central focus needed to rest as he exhorted. . .

            “(7) For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. (8) For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. (9) For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.” (Romans 14:7-9 ESV)

            Death in this realm does not end that relationship. The relationship with the everlasting Lord encompasses us in life and through death. Therefore, to live to the Lord we are prepared to die to the Lord so that in either case we remain His! By living so, other relationships and responsibilities will be drawn into proper perspective as we seek to honor Christ whether it be by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20) As the coming of our Lord into this realm was about us — saving us from our sins (1 Timothy 1:15) — may we keep life about Him as we continue living for His praise and His glory while trusting in the eternal glory yet to come!

            Have a great day KEEPING THE FOCUS CHRIST CENTERED!

                        Carl