Reading: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18

As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From 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.

At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them! But 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. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Reflection

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” This is a popular verse for those nearing the end of their life. Timothy goes on to say that there is a reward for doing this.

I find it interested that we don’t think about this when we are not expecting to end our time on earth. Shouldn’t we think about how we are keeping the faith when we are in the race? When we are still fighting?

How are you keeping the faith today?

–Chad Hershberger

Prayer

As we run the race, our faith is strengthened through our encounters with you, Lord. Be near us and help us to fight, run, and keep the faith.

Amen.