Timothy, please come as soon as you can. Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry. I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, be sure to bring the coat I left with Carpus at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers. Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm, but the Lord will judge him for what he has done. Be careful of him, for he fought against everything we said. The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen. Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila and those living in the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus stayed at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus sends you greetings, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters. May the Lord be with your spirit. And may his grace be with all of you.
2 Timothy 4:9-22 NLT
These are the Apostle Paul’s final written words. How did he end his life? First, he sent his closest co-workers off to plant new churches. Even as he was about to die, Paul stayed focused on his calling to spread the Good News to new areas. Second, he didn’t hold grudges. He forgave those who abandoned him and didn’t write off those who had wronged him. He did warn Timothy to be wary of certain people, but he didn’t end his life with any bitterness or hate.
Third, he focused on Christ, the center of his life. Jesus was with him through the hardships, and Paul was focused on giving glory to God alone. Finally, Paul ended his life with hope. He was hopeful that the mission would continue. Paul was hopeful that, before he would be executed, Timothy would arrive. Paul was hopeful about the future of the faith that he had worked so tirelessly to grow. He finished well.
What does it mean to you to finish well – a job, a relationship, or this life? Which of the four “endings” from Paul’s life could be stronger in your life – mission, forgiveness, focus on Jesus, or hope?
