2 Timothy 4:6 As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Paul is getting to the end of his ministry and writes these lovely verses. I can see in my mind’s eye the image of a drink being poured out with little left before empty. I discern a sense of pride in these verses, but mostly gratitude. Considering all that Paul had been through, making it to the end was no small thing.

I expect there were days when Paul didn’t know if he could continue to fight, when he might come up short rather than finishing what God had planned for him, when he might lose faith altogether. I have those thoughts myself. But by the grace of God Paul finished strong.

I’ve been a pastor for 21 years now and hope to have close to that many years remaining – time will tell. And when I come to the end of my ministry days, it would be a great blessing to be able to say what Paul writes about here. Lord Jesus give me grace to finish the race and keep the faith. Amen.