2 Timothy 1:1 (NRSV): 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, for the sake of the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.

I love the way this one verse brings so much clarity regarding Paul’s identity and calling. He is an apostle – a “sent one”. He was sent from Jerusalem to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. And why did he proclaim the gospel? Because of the “promise of life” found in Jesus.

30 years ago I was physically alive, but almost dead on the inside. I was lost, chasing after things that didn’t matter, wasting my young life. Jesus changed all that. The Lord drew me into a loving church that welcomed me and showed me how to use my God-given talents, not for my own sake but for the sake of others in Jesus’ name. I realized the life I had been living wasn’t life at all, but death masquerading as life.

Jesus also gave me a purpose. Just as I was experiencing a transformation on the inside, the Lord wanted me to share that life with others. If you’re a Christian that’s your purpose too. We are called to be disciples who make other disciples. There’s no more important job in the world than that. And the fruit of our work lasts forever. Literally.

Lord Jesus you are so good to us. In your name we have been baptized into the family of God. Give us grace to remember who we are and why we’re here. Amen.