Some of us have a hard time fathoming the enormous salaries top executives receive in large corporations.  Not only that, but there are lots of perks and bonuses that are built in to their contract to sweeten the pot even more.  We hear about one of these occasionally, especially when a corporation is being bought out.  It is called a “golden parachute.”

A golden parachute by definition is: “A clause in an executive’s employment contract specifying that he/she will receive large benefits (like severance pay, stock options, etc.) in the event that the company is acquired and the executive’s employment is terminated.”  In short, it means that he/she is going to be well taken care of regardless of what happens to the company.  Truly we can see why this parachute has been deemed “golden.”

I think about this “golden parachute” clause when I consider the benefits of Christianity.  Oh, it is not like we will ever be bought out or anything like that; it is that we have security and peace of mind even in life or death circumstances.  These words from Paul contain this thought: “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain...For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.  Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you” (Philippians 1:21-24).

The apostle knew that as long as He faithfully served the Lord, that he would be well taken care of in this life and in the next.  That was not only true for him, but for all Christians (2 Timothy 4:8).  Without question, living the Christian life far exceeds anything this world has to offer.  While it does not eliminate every difficulty we might face, God has promised to sustain us through anything as long as we keep our trust in Him (cf. Hebrews 13:5, 6).  Not only that, but Christians have the best “golden parachute” of all!  Once our time on earth is finished, our rewards are truly- - well, out of this world (Revelation 21:3, 4).

Who would not want to “sign on” to an offer like that?