Why Go on Living?

People who contemplate suicide usually hesitate for fear that what is on the other side might even be worse than their current situation. In their dilemma, they opt for whichever option they think will have the least suffering. But for Paul the dilemma was not which of two bad options was worse, but which of two good options was best. It was hard because both options were so good. To live meant to exalt Christ. To die, and experience it as gain because it meant being with Jesus, also exalted Christ. But when he realized it was better for the Philippians that he remain, that tipped the scales because he considered their needs more important than his. Meaning in life comes from fulfilling your calling.