Death is often viewed as the great unknown, a looming fear for many. But for the believer, it is not an end—it is a doorway into the presence of Christ. In Acts 7 and Philippians 1, we glimpse this hope through the words of Stephen and Paul—two men who faced death not with dread, but with deep longing to be with their Savior.

Scripture:
“As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’” — Acts 7:59, NLT
“I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.” — Philippians 1:23, NLT

Reflection:
Stephen’s final words as the stones flew reveal a soul at peace. He didn’t beg for escape. He didn’t cry out in bitterness. He prayed, entrusting his spirit to Jesus, echoing the very words Christ spoke from the cross (Luke 23:46). His death was violent, but his heart was held in calm assurance: to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Paul, too, wrestled with this tension—between fruitful labor on earth and the deep desire to be with Jesus. His words in Philippians 1:23 are not morbid; they are full of confident joy. “To be with Christ…is far better.” Better than comfort. Better than resolution. Better than life itself.

These verses remind us that our hope is not in prolonging this life, but in the life to come. For those in Christ, death is not defeat. It is union. It is home. And even now, we live with that promise shaping how we endure trials, love boldly, and hold loosely to the temporary.

Application:
Let these truths quiet your fears about death or loss. Fix your eyes on Jesus, who stands ready to receive His people. And while we remain here, may we live with the same courage and clarity as Stephen and Paul—unafraid to die, but committed to live for Christ until He calls us home.

References:
“Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8, NLT
“Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” — Luke 23:43, NLT

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise of Your presence both now and in eternity. Teach me to live with a heart anchored in heaven, unafraid of what lies ahead. When fear creeps in, remind me that You are near—that to leave this world is to fall into Your arms. Give me courage to live faithfully and peace to trust You with my days. Amen.