2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 (NRSV)
Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 on biblegateway.com
Verse 6As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. Verse 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Verse 8From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Verse 16At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them! Verse 17But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. Verse 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Devotion
St. Paul’s Christian life was never easy. All the challenges and trials he encountered serve as a witness of God’s faithfulness to those who are faithful to him from generation to generation. Paul is a great example for us to follow in our faith journey.
As I am getting older, Paul’s final words deeply inspire me. His full trust in God made him confident to say “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” He was ready to see the Lord, believing he would be awarded the crown of righteousness from the Righteous One when he came to the last phase of his life.
One day when the time comes for my departure from the world, it is my wish that people who know me would use Paul’s conviction from these verses for my eulogy and epitaph.
Prayer
Our heavenly Father, thank you for your faithful servant, St. Paul, who kept the faith in you from the day he was converted to the end of his life. Grant us strength and wisdom in the trials and turmoils of our life, that we may walk closely with you in faith, hope and love until our savior comes again. Amen.