2 Timothy isn't the last of Paul's letters in the order of the New Testament, but it's believed to be the final letter he wrote before his execution in Rome. A man's dying words ought to be especially significant and Paul is certainly no exception.
In chapter 1, he renews his affection for Timothy referring to him as "my dear son" (v. 2). We see Paul encouraging Timothy to remain strong and full of courage. "So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord....But join with me in suffering for the gospel" (v. 8). Paul points to his own personal suffering and wears it proudly, as he views the suffering as part of his divine calling, and as his days are numbered, Paul affirms his hope in the life to come (v. 12).
In the last section of the chapter we see names of three men. My heart breaks for Phygelus and Hermogenes, whose claim to fame in the chronicles of biblical history seems to be that each of them joined others in deserting Paul. One wonders why those two were singled out.
If our goal is to finish strong, we ought to aspire to be like Onesiphorus, one who loved Paul until the end. "Unashamed" of Paul's imprisonment, Onesiphorus travels from Ephesus and searches Rome until finding Paul, bringing him refreshment. "May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day!" (v. 18). May we find that same mercy. Amen.
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