For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. (7) I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (8) Finally there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. (16) At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. (17) But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. (18) And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!
The second letter to Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul. Our verses today are a summary of Paul’s own life, in his own words, and are his final words to Timothy – and to us. Paul is in Rome, imprisoned in the dreadful Mamertine prison where the only entry was through a hole in the ceiling and his pit was without light, water or toilet – or heat. We read through Paul’s final words that he is lonely, abandoned – except for Luke – disappointed and fearful for the Church that it’s center will hold in the face of escalating persecution and corruption. But Paul, in the face of certain immanent death, is calm and absolutely sure the crown of righteousness awaits him. He has finished his race and will see God as will all those who have loved His appearing.
Paul tells us that his life is already being poured out as a drink offering would be poured out – the final phase of a sacrificial offering to the Lord. He knows that starting well is relatively easy – finishing well is the test. Paul knows that the world through evil is hostile to Christians. He is at peace with God and knows that he has lived his life obedient to God’s will and power. Paul is ready to depart – he has done well; fought the good fight for the gospel for the glory of God. He has finished the course. His focus was always on Christ and the reality of the future eternal life was always there – because God Imputes the righteousness of Christ to faithful men we are justified and our sins are covered. Paul has fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith. There is no regret, no sadness and no sense of the incomplete. These verses are words of joy and triumph. And Paul knows that God will welcome his good and faithful servant. This is not death but departure and there is no greater encouragement to live such a live that we also may “depart” to God’s glory.