Richard C. Cook comments: This reading from Paul’s 2nd letter to the Philippians continues the theme of the immortality of the spiritual body introduced in the last two Bible readings presented on Three Sages. The modern Luminary Bô Yin Râ (Joseph Anton Schneiderfranken, 1876-1943) has much to say by way of explanation of these ideas presented by Jesus and elaborated on by Paul. Basically, we have the opportunity, after the death of the physical body, of obtaining help in our further spiritual growth from Jesus and other divine helpers. But it is up to us to use our earthly life wisely in order to be able to recognize and accept this help after our physical body passes away. Bô Yin Râ teaches, for example, that one way to prepare is to practice “dying daily.” This may be done through the daily efforts at prayer and meditation which Bô Yin Râ explains in his books. A starting point may be to read selections from Bô Yin Râ’s books which may be found HERE in the Three Sages Substack or by ordering the books from the Books to Light website. Perhaps the greatest calamity that may befall a human being is to cross the life-to-death threshold without preparation. Indeed, it is a major purpose of the world’s authentic religions to educate people for this event. Those without such an education are at a great disadvantage when the time comes, as it will for everyone.

Brothers and sisters:
Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.
For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.
If I go on living in the flesh,
that means fruitful labor for me.
And I do not know which I shall choose.
I am caught between the two.
I long to depart this life and be with Christ,
for that is far better.
Yet that I remain in the flesh
is more necessary for your benefit.