“To Timothy, my beloved child:
“Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
“I thank God whom I serve,.. as I remember you constantly in my prayers. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother and mother and now dwells in you… Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
“Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling… because of his own purpose and grace… Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
“My child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me… entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also… Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker… rightly handling the word of truth… Be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
“You have followed my teaching, conduct, aim in life, faith, patience, love, steadfastness, persecutions and sufferings… Continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and… the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 1:2-9,13-14; 2:1-2,15,21; 3:10-11a,14-15
As he awaited execution in a Roman jail, Paul penned his final letter with a vision of holy calling and the ink of affection. Having been abandoned by several for their fear of persecution, he commended his spiritual son Timothy to continue in and pass on the same holy calling he’d received and exercised so faithfully. There is nothing quite like the endorsement, encouragement, and benediction of one you respect and love. (2 Timothy 1:15)
How carefully am I carrying out my holy calling from God? Assigned my specific location, personality, talents, and resources, my calling is distinct from anyone else’s. Do I spend useless time comparing, criticizing, or procrastinating? Or will I eagerly set about to do the works my Lord has specifically prepared for me to do? How willingly and energetically do I fight the good fight, regardless of opposition? (Acts 17:26; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 4:7)
And as I go about my calling, whom am I encouraging in theirs? Am I so focused on my task that I fail to see the bigger picture, the wide scope of kingdom work beyond mine and workers who will outlive me? Am I so bent on accomplishing my goals that I neglect the training and building up that multiplies God’s work? Who can I take under my wing and commend unto every good deed for Christ today?
Father, keep me faithful to the end, grateful for those who have gone before me, and generously urging others beside and behind. May I execute every aspect of Your holy call with faith, excellence, and faithfulness, to Your glory and praise.
As the rain and snow 
What a strengthening reminder, Pam!
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