But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)
The apostle Paul is on his way to Jerusalem where he is expecting “imprisonment and persecutions” for his work in proclaiming the gospel. But first, he wants to encourage the church he had helped start at Ephesus, knowing he likely will not be able to visit them again.
Paul has already faced imprisonment and persecutions. He has travelled many, many miles throughout the region, mostly by foot, establishing church communities in places such as Ephesus, Philippi, Corinth, among others. He has preached to Jews and Gentiles. He has worked among both rich and poor. And he has had his authority challenged by believers and non-believers alike. And like the Energizer Bunny, he keeps going, and going, and going.
Some of the teaching recorded in Paul’s letters I would challenge, too, but I have to admire his tenacity. However it came to pass, Paul felt truly called to the ministry of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and he did it unwaveringly right up until the end of his life.
I do not see myself walking hundreds of miles to tell the world about Jesus. Maybe a bike ride but not walking. And I do not think I could withstand the “imprisonment and persecutions” that Paul endured with the same grace and patience. However, in some small way I do hope that I have testified and will continue to “testify to the good news of God’s grace” as best I am able.
What is your “course and ministry” that you have received from Jesus Christ? Is it to tell others of God’s love? Is it to share your gifts and blessings in creative and generous ways? Is it simply to live the example of a life pleasing to God? Whatever your course, may you give it your very best and come to see that following God’s call as best we are able is one of life’s greatest joys, even in the face of life’s troubles.