Winter eventually comes for everyone, even the greatest saints in history. Some people have been used so mightily by God to extend His kingdom that we wonder that God should ever remove them from His work in the Church. But every person, regardless of how dynamic and powerful he or she has been in God’s service, eventually sees winter come to their lives.
Paul was confined to a damp, cold, prison. With winter approaching, he would suffer greatly without his cloak to keep him warm and the fellowship of dear friends to cheer his spirit. The apostle had invested much into the life of young Timothy and now it was the embattled apostle who needed his disciple to come and minister to him. What joy to have those you once ministered to, now caring for you!
But winter was also coming to Paul’s life. He was facing execution. His body was weary from years of toil and strain. The time was coming for him to return to His Savior and to pass the torch on to the next generation. Perhaps there was a sense of urgency that young Timothy come quickly so the aged apostle could impart one final blessing before his final departure. Time becomes precious as we approach the end of our lives. We realize that every conversation and each chance to pass on a blessing to others is invaluable. So Paul urged Timothy to come before winter. Are there still important things you need to attend to before winter finally comes to your life?