Come before winter...

When the Apostle Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, he was once again a prisoner in Rome.  He was in chains for preaching the gospel.  Because of his imprisonment,  a number of individuals has deserted him. This is Paul’s last letter before his death.

The following verses are from the Chapter 4 of Second Timothy.

  “ Timothy, please come as soon as you can.  Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens had 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, 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 has 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 rescue me from every evil attack and bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All  glory to God forever and ever. Amen.

Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquilla and those living in the household to 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 New Living Translation

This was the scripture that was preached on October 4, 1981 at Sherman Street Church of God in Anderson , Indiana.  Why is that important to me? It was when I made my first public confession of faith. Repentance of sin… confession… new birth.

My spiritual birthday! I am 32 years old.