[24] But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
(Acts 20:24 ESV)
Paul was speaking to a group of fellow believers before he was to head off to Jerusalem. He knew that his course of action would set off a series of conflicts against him and later in the same address , tells those with him they would not see his face again.
But this passage really struck me with force as I was thinking on my life and where I'm going . What shall I be remembered for . Paul tells them that his life is of no importance to himself , his only hope is that he finish the ministry that had been set before by Jesus and proclaim the gospel of God's grace.
His love for Jesus and his bold ,clear proclamation was a staple of Paul's ministry. His witness , his preaching,his love for the church,the people was all framed by his love for God found in the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ.It would cost him his life in Rome . Tradition tells us he was beheaded. But as we look at his life , his love and heart for Jesus shines so bright that it is blinding. This love translated in his love for the lost , for those saved and for God's church.
As one approaches 50(only 2 years away) one begins to look back and wonder what has this life been about so far. One wants to be a good husband,father, friend,worker etc... but ultimately I would desire, going forward ,to have Jesus so frame my life that all those things that are good, be are gospel saturated. To testify of the love of God , found in Jesus Christ. That is what I want to be remembered for .
1 comment:
When I see your forgiving heart towards those who have wronged you, I see Jesus' command to forgive 70 x 7. It is an example that has caused me to reexamine my own sinful weakness, in that area.
Beggars, of all ilks, can see you coming a mile a while. They see your soft heart and your generous spirit.
Anybody who is disenfranchised, or just hurting, comes to you for advice or just to chat. Try going shopping with him, people.
I can tell you this. Everybody who knows me, knows that you're a saint for putting up with me. Trust me, dear readers, this is not hyperbole. It takes a great deal of strength to be married to a disabled person, especially one with my personality. So much so, that Jake wants to have a marriage like ours.
I see a man who society says should have divorced me long ago. We've been though financial strife, cancer, disability and the deaths of peole we have loved most dearly. You are loving and courageous enough to fight the good fight, even when life sends you another blow. When I feel overwhelmed, you encourage to go on. You are my biggest fan.
I have no doubt that, when you see the Lord face to face, you will hear those beautiful words, "Well done, good and faithful servant, well done." Love you, Mrs Reg
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