Phil 2:17-30

which Paul is rejoicing about

he is not saying

anything about fear, or dread,

or how he will miss them

Paul is rejoicing over

his soon death.

because as Paul said in chapter 1

to live is Christ to die is gain

to be with Christ is far better

because of Jesus

we can rejoice

in leaving this earth.

because we know we are going to

a much better place

showing us again this theme through Philippians:

joy not based on circumstances

but joy based in Christ.

so Paul also wants them to rejoice over this too

that as he described about his soon death

he said that (v.17)

he is being poured out like a drink offering.

this is a picture of

a practice among both Jews and pagans in their sacrifices.

The offerers poured wine either in front of

or on top of the burning animal

and the wine would be vaporized.

That steam symbolized the rising of the offering to the deity

for whom the sacrifice was made (cf. Ex 29:38, 39, 40, 41; 2Ki 16:13 ;Jer 7:18 ; Ho 9:4).

so Paul is saying that his life is about to be poured out

like a sacrifice that will rise up to God.

what a great way to look at the end of life

I given my life in service

Its now going to be poured out

and lifted up to God