finish

2 Timothy 4

2 Preach the word of God.

Be persistent,

    whether the time is favorable or not.

Patiently correct,

     rebuke,

     & encourage you people with Good teaching.


5 You should keep a clear mind in every situation.

     Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord.

        Work at bringing others to Christ.

Complete the ministry God has for you.



Paul loved Timothy not like a son, but as his son. While reading the 2 letters Paul wrote to Timothy, it's not hard to pick up on the bond they shared & the easy love of a father & son that was between them.

Paul knew he was about to die. We don't know if Timothy got to him before Paul died. These closing remarks are from a spectacular man of God to some think his equally spectacular son. They carry the same portent that you or I would impart to our child if we were in the same situation.

A little later, Paul asks Timothy to bring a coat he left somewhere.

And maybe most poignant is his simple request - come before winter.


I don't think it's by accident that Paul finishes he "things to do" list with this simple mandate:

     Complete the ministry God has for you.


Finish.


I hope I can finish well. I'm trying to get in a place where I can.