2 Timothy 1:

• Months could be spent on this chapter alone. One thing that particularly jumped out today is Paul’s reminder that there is nothing to be ashamed of (vs. 3, 7, 8, 12). There is a pattern in this world that would make one feel guilty about decisions and commitments (vs. 3), that might make a man fear to try to do what is right and loving (vs. 7), that pushes one to be embarrassed of Good News (the Gospel – vs. 8), and to lower the bar on our commitments to the Word of God and the Holy Spirit’s call on ones life (vs. 12). This pattern is further exacerbated by being socially ostracized and even inflicted with suffering because of our commitments! Paul does not deflect or shy away from these probabilities, nor does he coat this with some pipe-dream of getting what you are “due.” Rather, he points to a larger, transcendent meta-narrative that assures us that, come-what-may, we are connected to bigger things that are eternally true, good, and beautiful (vs. 9-11).
  • Holy Spirit, keep my eyes locked on your grand work. If this can be my enduring resolution, then I might be able to live for usefulness beyond these passing decades. Your will be done!