“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... I charge you… to keep the commandment without stain or reproach…”
Every Sunday, as we stand to profess our faith in the creed, we renew our commitment, with all at worship with us. In this way, we not only recite that in which we believe but grasp again the gift of eternal life.
In many letters, Paul offers a litany of virtues to be sought, fruits to be made manifest, and the elements present in our Christian family life. Whether it is the hymn of charity in Corinthians, the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians, or the building blocks in Colossians, we are given the foundation stones for solid Christian living. The list offered to Timothy today is intended to be added to many others. Thank you, Paul, for such wonderful reminders.