Apostle Paul utilizes clever word crafting by altering the use and meaning of “at home”, “body”, and “away”. While “home” always means where we dwell, in one sentence, the place of occupation is the physical body, and in another, the place of occupation is in paradise with the Lord. The meaning all depends on which side of the grave we exist. Paul stresses that, no matter where home is, this world or the next, the Lord Jesus is the source and focus of our existence and heart.
While I am “in the body“, my source and focus can reside in Jesus because I live by faith, not by sight. Like the ancients were commended for, I am sure of what I hope for and certain of what I do not see. (Hebrews 11:1) This is my faith expressed in the knowledge that one day I will appear before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account of what I did while “in the body”. While my home is in this body, I work on my character, practicing love for others as Jesus teaches me to do.
Jesus teaches me to be a wise builder, placing my home on the rock where rain, flood, and winds will not destroy. He also teaches me not to be a foolish builder, placing my home on sand where the torments and troubles of this world tear down faith and a good character. (Matthew 7:24-29)
Jesus also teaches me to be a man who uses the talents he gave me to increase his investment. Jesus has gone away to the home I will occupy with him. A day is coming when I will stand before Jesus’ judgment seat to settle the account with me. I want to hear his pleased word, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things while in the body.” I do not want to hear his displeased word, “You wicked, lazy servant! Take the talent from his and give it to someone else. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 25:14-30)
