by: Steve Sering

During WWII, a young conscientious objector named Desmond Doss displayed great heroism. Refusing to carry a gun, he was bullied by his fellow soldiers and commanding officer. He stayed true to his convictions, being a follower of God and the Bible and sought to be an Army medic. Two strikes were against him as a man of faith: He refused to fight on the sabbath and would not carry a gun. When time for battle came Desmond answered the call to tend to his wounded comrades. During the battle of Hacksaw Ridge, where many of his comrades were left for dead, Desmond sprung to action, saving nearly 75 lives on May 5^th, 1945. Putting himself and grave danger, he tended to the wounded soldiers on incredibly dangerous terrain. He got so close to enemy lines that he could hear Japanese soldiers whispering. Compelled by a strong faith, Doss even saved the life of his commanding officer (https://desmonddoss.com/bio/bio-real.php).

The Apostle Paul went behind enemy lines and ushered in the rapid expanse of Christianity during the first century AD. He had many helping him including Timothy and Titus. 2 Timothy was his final letter to his son in the faith, Timothy. Suffer well for the gospel. Spend your life serving your commanding officer, King Jesus. Give your life for the church. These lessons he passed down to his son in the faith. Just as Desmond Doss did, and more importantly, the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul poured out his life for the sake of others. In the verses under consideration today, Paul instructed various workers of the gospel. He sought to bless them for their efforts to propel the gospel across the Roman empire. Every commanding officer needs an army. The Apostle Paul’s included young pastors Timothy and Titus. These men refreshed him in his work, now coming to the finish line. 

Approaching the finish line has a way of refocusing the saint. For Paul, the return of Christ and the prospect of heaven were like a lighthouse in the waves of persecution. He needed hope to finish well. Tradition holds that he was beheaded for his faith shortly after penning this letter. May we emulate his bold faith. May we refresh the church and admonish its leaders like he did. Even unto death, the Apostle Paul poured out his heart and life for King Jesus and the church. Lord, help me to emulate this example of self-sacrifice and devotion. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. Are you willing to give your life for King Jesus? How can you be a better bold witness for Christ in a compromising culture?
2. Are you pouring your everything into the church Christ purchased with his blood? How can you refresh suffering saints in your church body?