... the time of my departure has come ... I have finished the race ... Do your best to come before winter ...

2 Timothy 4:6-7, 21

Paul was in the winter of his life. He knew his time on earth was short. He was feeling lonely and forlorn. Only Luke was with him. He pleads with Timothy to come before winter. When we transition from the autumn to the winter of our life, it may be a time of loneliness and lament. We may struggle with health or mobility issues. Our beloved spouse may have gone to be with the Lord. We may long for a close companion.

That companion is Jesus, who promises to be with us always. And like Paul, we know that the best is yet to come. We know by faith that Jesus will be waiting for us at the finish line. When the winter winds blow, by God’s grace we can say with Paul: “I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Gil Duchow
Muskego, WI

Dear Jesus, I am so grateful that you will always be my close companion. Amen.

Reflect: Reach out with compassion and comfort to those who are struggling in the winter of their lives.

Read: 2 Timothy 4:6-13, 20-21 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-25