“She’s in a better place,” people say to each other about a believer in Jesus who has died. Those aren’t just nice-sounding words but a promised truth of the Bible: “to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).
For Christians, dying results in something gained, something we didn’t have before, an improvement over the way things were while we lived on earth. Better.
The apostle Paul wrote these words in the Bible book of Philippians teaching us about eternal life in heaven, and he agrees, “I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far” (Philippians 1:23).
That’s the best part of heaven. Sure, you will experience relief from suffering, and that’s better. You will perform perfectly without ever making any mistakes, and that’s better. You will worship with angels, meet Moses, and be reunited with grandma, and those are better.
But the best part of heaven is being with Jesus. In the flesh. Real. There. Forever. You’ll look in his eyes and he’ll look in yours. You’ll touch him. Shake his hand. Hug him hard. Feel his beard rub on your face.
“I’m glad you’re here,” he whispers. “I knew you’d make it.”
You knew it, too. Because of him. Because Jesus saved you from your sins. And he promised that by believing in him you have eternal life. In heaven, that promise comes true.
PRAYER: Jesus, I want to be with you so much that I’m ready for heaven any time. This world isn’t as attractive to me as you are, and I’m eager to see you, spend time with you, and share more with you than ever before. Keep me focused on my eternal home, and I’ll see you there soon! Amen.
FOR A FRIEND: Share this with a friend or with family who is grieving the loss of a loved one who died in the faith.