September 25, 2022
“But you, man of God, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience and gentleness. Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
Can you see yourself, like Timothy, opening and reading Paul's letter to you today? Typical of Paul we find a litany of virtues which describe one who desires and strives to live a truly Christian life. Consider for a moment someone who reflects for you each of the virtues mentioned. Then consider whether they are mirrored, as Paul refers to you as a ‘person of God.’
The parable of the rich man and Lazarus reminds us that the poor person at our door is asking that we might reflect the goodness to which Paul refers. Each virtue offers healing for the wounds of the poor man Lazarus.
Timothy, Lazarus and I have much in common.
by Rev. William J. Reilly