The Farewell

Now from Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus and Calle st he leaders of the church. And when they came to him, he said to them, "You know, from the first day I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time- serving the Lord with all humility, with tears, and with trials that came to me through the plots of the Jews- and that I did not shrink back from proclaiming to you anything that was profitable or from teaching it to you in public and from house to house. I testified to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus.
And now I  am on my way to Jerusalem, bound in my spirit, not knowing what I will encounter there, except that in every town the Holy Spirit testifies to me that chains and afflictions are waiting for me. But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I might finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace.
And now I know that none of you will ever see my face again- everyone I went about preaching the kingdom to. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of everyone's blood, for I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole plan of God." Acts 20:17-27

Paul, much like Jesus, made sure his farewell was meaningful. He knew he was to face chains and prison, what that was like, as in to what degree and at which point, he did not have all the details. Paul had given his best to the Ephesians and they also knew it. They were saddened to hear they would not see him again, it sounded serious.

Tonight I received notice that a friend's son had died. He knew he would die as he had cancer. Paul knew he would face chains, but he did not know when. When we know the end is nigh we can prepare. I think it is great that nowadays insurance cover can be paid out before death in the notice of a terminal disease. This gives the beneficiary time to settle their affairs before death.

As a Christian I look forward to death as it is my portal to eternal life. For those left behind, I am sure they will grieve for a time, but me, I will be free forever and in the presence of my Lord. What joy!

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