Date: 02-13-2020

Title: Finish the Race – Complete the Task

(S) cripture:
    Acts 20:24 (NASB77) “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.

(O) bservation:
    As Paul prepares to leave for Jerusalem, knowing he will not return, he calls the elders together to say goodbye. He sets before them the example of how he lived and what he wanted most in life. He warns them of challenges that will come to them and the people. He shares his heart of heart with them. He shares how he wants to be remembered and what he wants most for his life.

(A) pplication:
    Today is a day of reflection on my life and ministry. I served as Sr. Pastor in two churches, FBC Wheeling, WV and FBC Charlotte, MI. I left Wheeling to go to Charlotte and then left Charlotte when I retired. In both places it was difficult to say goodbye, especially to those you have loved and shared your life and the gospel with. I hope that when I left the people knew of my great love for them but also of my great desire to follow the Lord’s lead in my life even when it means leaving people you care deeply about. I must daily decide to live solely focused on the race and task God has for me to run and complete. I cannot be double minded. If my life is to be a testimony to the gospel of God’s grace, then I must follow each and every day. As I think about having retired and moving back to West Virginia I hope that this is the example I set for the people in Wheeling and Charlotte.

(P) rayer:
    Lord, I pray that those I have served as pastor have been strengthened in their walk with you. I want them to know of my great love for them and also that we each must follow you regardless of where that leads. Father, You know that I am easily distracted, I ask that you help me stay on the course of your race and task for me. Amen