Paul’s final words are not that of a defeated man. On the contrary, he has run the race, he has fought the fight and he has kept the faith. This is not a tragic end to someone who has been ‘poured out’ but rather he believes in what looks like a ceremony to come.
“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4 v 8)
I just saw this phrase at a podium in the U.S: May Charlie be received into the merciful arms of Jesus, our loving Saviour. How wonderful it is to see that on the BBC News.
When we die and meet Jesus we will be given the victor’s crown given to winners at athletic competitions.
- It’s a reward for faithfulness, not perfection. The righteousness isn’t his own moral achievement, but the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.
- It’s awarded by the righteous Judge. God’sevaluation is based on truth, not appearances or politics.
- It’s promised for that day. The day of Christ’s return and final judgment.
- The promise to all. The crown of righteousness isn’t reserved for apostles or super-saints. It’s available to every believer who lives with eager anticipation of Christ’s return.
Every day we see a follower of Jesus go on that amazing journey to Jesus. Every time it teaches us to live with the healthy balance between engaging fully in this life while keeping our ultimate hope fixed on the next. We work diligently, love deeply, and serve faithfully, but we hold all earthly things lightly, knowing our true citizenship is in heaven.
As we face our own challenges, losses, and even our own mortality, we can do so with Paul’s confidence. The race we’re running has a finish line, and the Judge waiting there is both righteous and gracious.
May we live today worthy of that eternal reward.
Missions Paul 