" 'But none of these things move me, nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.' " (Acts 20:24)
Both Paul and the elders from Ephesus knew that this was the last time that they would share any time together. Paul had received a word from the Holy Spirit that he would be bound in chains when he got to Jerusalem. But he faced the future with a clear conscience. He had lived a life of integrity and had nothing to be ashamed of. He had preached the Gospel faithfully, serving the Lord with humility and many tears (vs. 19), which demonstrated His great love for the Lord Jesus and for His church. He had not acted inappropriately before the believers. They knew his manner of life (vs. 18). He had no desire for their financial support. In fact, he provided for his own necessities. He lived by the words of the Lord Jesus: that "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (vs. 35).
What a way to go. Having nothing in your life or character that anyone could point to as a bad testimony. I don't know that this is true in my life, but I would want to be able to face eternity with a clear conscience.
And I do. Paul had many things that could have clouded his final days, but they were all under the blood of Jesus – forgiven. What freedom there is to have a clean conscience.
The Apostle did not know for sure when God would call Him home, but he knew that it was not too far down the path. None of us know for sure when our time on earth will end, but for some of us, we know it is not too far because of our age. But regardless of whether we are young, middle-age, or seniors, we know that it is inevitable so we live as though it would be today. We can finish our race with joy.
This is a worthy goal.
Love, Dad
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