Pray:
Father, help me to embrace community and to be a blessing to others. Bring us into the fullness of Christ.
Read:
2 Timothy 4:9-22
Reflect:
When you think of Paul, how do you picture him?
Paul was a leader powerfully used by God, yet he was also a man. He had desires for possessions that would presumably make him comfortable. He specifically mentions his cloak, scrolls, and parchments (13). He also needed people!
Paul was buffeted by the sad reality of desertion, loneliness, and opposition. These challenges of leadership came from the choices and actions of those who were against Paul, such as Alexander (14), or deserters, such as Demas (10). Yet some of the loneliness was due to sickness, as in the case of Trophimus (20), or leaders released into ministry, including Tychicus (12), Titus (10), and Erastus (20). Paul's words show himself to be a man who needs companionship.
Yet that is not the end of the story. These words also tell of commitment (by Luke, 11), of divine rescue (17,18), and of restoration. Mark, who had deserted Paul in Pamphylia (Acts 15:37,38), is welcomed back as a companion in ministry (11).
These final words of Paul show just how much he needs the family of God. How about you?
Apply:
Help someone who needs a word of encouragement, an active display of support or intercession. Follow through.
Pray:
Lord, You are so good and part of that goodness is revealed in community. Help us walk together as You desire.
