Focus

As you quiet yourself for this brief time, be willing to be open to God in whatever way that may take place.

Read

2 Timothy 1:8-12a New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

⁸ Do not be ashamed, then, of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, ⁹ who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace. This grace was given to us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, ¹⁰ but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. ¹¹ For this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher, ¹² and for this reason I suffer as I do.

Reflect

Second Timothy is a letter of encouragement from a seasoned pastor to his younger apprentice. Paul knew he would soon be executed, and perhaps he sensed that Timothy might feel fearful and unsure of his abilities. Paul wanted to embolden Timothy to press on without him. He urged Timothy to press on because his source of strength was God and not himself.

Following God is not for the timid. In this section, Paul reminded Timothy of his “holy calling”. This calling will require the Timothy to be resolute in his faithfulness to Jesus Christ. Listen as Paul implores his protégé, “Do not be ashamed of your testimony even if it requires suffering. Just focus on Christ, the one who died so that you may live. If you remember that fact, you will be continually motivated to share the Christ with others”

Where is your focus? Have your circumstances taken your eyes off of Christ and your “holy calling”?

Pray

Father, we are often distracted by difficult circumstances. We feel ashamed of our inadequacies in dealing with life. Father, encourage us to return our focus to you and your loving grace so that we might live according to your holy calling of grace and purpose. Amen

Go with God!