This last Sunday my father retired after 40 years of pastoral ministry. As a young pastor myself, I was reminded of how blessed I am to have my dad as a role model for a lifetime of faithfulness to the Lord. Not everyone can say this, but my dad is my hero.

Growing up as a PK (pastor’s kid) gave me special insight into the life of a pastor and all the joys and sorrows and privileges and challenges that come with full-time ministry in the local church. I’m thankful that I had an experience where I never felt overlooked or overshadowed by the ministry. My dad (and mom!) made time for us. He took his calling seriously, but he never let that commitment crowd out time at home with the family. For that, I’m truly grateful.

Seeing my dad honored by a wonderful local church–Tri-City Baptist in Myrtle Creek, Oregon–got me thinking about what I will see as I look over my shoulder when I’m near the finish line.

In his second letter to his young protege, Timothy, the Apostle Paul issues a charge for the young pastor to “preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2, NIV). Most readers note the seriousness of Paul’s words: 

“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge.” (2 Timothy 4:1, NIV)

In context, Paul is writing this as his final letter before being martyred. He is on death row, in the Mamertine Prison in Rome. 

What strikes me is that, with full knowledge of his impending death, Paul displays no anxiety or fearfulness about what comes next (vv. 6-8). Just the opposite, in fact. He looks back on his life, not with regret, but with deep satisfaction, as a soldier who has accomplished his mission and as an athlete who has crossed the finish line.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7, NIV)

So often we hear of people who look back on their lives filled with regret, reflecting on all the “might have beens” in their personal history. But not Paul. Death is knocking on his door, and yet he is confident of standing before the Lord Jesus, not in shame, but to receive the highest honor.

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8, NIV) 

Paul’s tone is triumphant! It’s as if the Roman Caesar, Nero, has issued the verdict: “I condemn you!” And Paul says, “Yes, but the Lord Jesus commends me.” Paul is anticipating, not the applause of the world, but the applause of Heaven. I also note that Paul doesn’t say this reward is only for Apostles like him, as if the average Christian shouldn’t expect this. He says this reward is for “all who have longed for his appearing.”

In other words, if you love and follow Jesus, this should be your expectation, too.

God has given each Christ-follower a race to run. I can’t run your race for you, and you can’t run my race for me. We all have a race to run. May our expectation of being with our Savior, who is also “the righteous Judge,” at the finish line motivate us as we run the race before us.

Have thoughts on this post? I’d love to hear from you!