Reading With the People of God #15 Purposeಮಾದರಿ

Rekindling Purpose in Love and Calling

In Song of Songs 6:11–7:10, we witness an unfolding scene of delight and beauty. The lover admires the beloved with poetic awe, describing not only physical beauty but the allure of a relationship marked by intimacy, delight, and belonging. There is a sense of mutual joy and attentive admiration—a picture of love that both delights and dignifies.

Today, we also begin the next letter in our New Testament journey: 2 Timothy, Paul’s final letter, written from prison to his spiritual son and ministry partner, Timothy. As you read chapter 1, you’ll notice Paul’s heart of urgency and affection. He reminds Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God and not to be ashamed of the gospel or of suffering for it. This sets the tone for the letter’s themes of perseverance, legacy, and faithful purpose in the face of hardship.

II Timothy Introduction

Paul was a prisoner once again but this time it was a dungeon, not house arrest. Paul longed for Timothy, like a father for his son, and called for him to come to him in Rome for only Luke was with him there. Paul instructs Timothy on who and what to bring to him when he comes.

In this last word to Timothy, Paul stresses the need to preach Christ, to guard and remain true to the message he received from Paul, and to pass it on to faithful men. Another reason for the letter was to reach out to the church at Ephesus with encouragement and instruction in righteousness, admonishing them to stay strong in the face of persecution.

Tradition tells us that Timothy was murdered in Ephesus in 97 AD when he argued with a mob of pagans over their idolatrous worship; he was over 80 years old.

* Introduction contributed by Jinet Troost

Be watching for these themes of love, endurance, and calling—both in the poetic longing of the Song and the apostolic exhortation of Paul. Let the Spirit draw you deeper into the beauty of a life lived purposefully in response to God’s love.

Reflection Question:
Where in your life might God be inviting you to rekindle passion—for Him, for others, or for the calling He has placed on your life?

Prayer of Illumination:
Lord, breathe on the embers of my heart. Through Your Word today, stir fresh wonder at Your love and fresh courage for Your calling. May I read with an open spirit, ready to receive all You have for me. Amen