1 & 2 Timothy
We are now passed the half-way point of the New Testament Challenge and we are reminded by Saint Paul via Saint Timothy to remain diligent in our work as ministers. The 40-day blogging challenge, in which I am also participating, is meant to encourage preachers to use 21st Century technology as a means to prepare for our Sunday sermons. Whether this exercise is bearing fruit in my sermons you would have to ask our parishioners…
Saint Paul felt much pressure from those who had abandoned him during his ministry. He names several in today’s readings so I will not name them here since you should also be reading the assigned readings for the Challenge. BUT I do want to point out that Saint Paul was comforted by the persecution he endured preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He says, “But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Timothy 4.5)
Saint Paul also says, “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3.12) This should not be an excuse for not working for Jesus Christ simply because we will be persecuted. Is the servant greater than his Master? (John 13.16) We are all called to a particular ministry in Christ’s Holy Church.
In this season of preparing for Christmas, maybe a good start would be to fulfill the ministry that He has given to us. If you don’t know what ministry the Lord is calling you to accomplish, call your Priest and sit and chat about your ministry. In prayer and Confession the Holy Spirit will guide into serving Him this Christmas.
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