Finishing Well

2 Timothy 4:7 Paul says "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

I think it would be fair to say Paul finished well. As I sit this morning pondering the addition of another wonderful granddaughter, (Couldn't help myself, had to post a picture)

I can't help think of how my life will finish. It is critical to me to be the best grandpa I can possibly be, and that has to include spiritual influence on my children and grandchildren. But it also goes much farther than that, it also includes the kingdom of God.

Nowhere does the phrase "what have you done lately" hit harder than when life is considered. It is not the typical use of the phrase but I can't help but think as I reach the last segment of this journey, it really doesn't matter what I did as a young Christian. In fact, most folks I know today don't have a clue what I was like prior to coming to Christ, or the difference that was obvious after I was saved. What will remain in folks minds is what I did recently and did I finish?

I recently read "Aging isn't optional, being aged is." There is not a requirement that we get bitter and mean as we get old, it's a choice we make and a choice I have set my mind not to make. I think that if I stay close to the Lord and live a life that is clean before Him, I will always exude the "Joy of the Lord".

I also think there is "rent due" on my earthly space, and believe that the best way to pay that rent is through investing in others. Many others throughout the earlier years in my life "invested" and made those payments by pouring into my life. Some made large investments and my life is so much better for their time and prayers.

The increasing number of candles on the birthday cake provides a brighter light for those attending the party. And in the same manner, our lives should provide a greater illumination on the lives of those who "attend" our lives. As we age we should by the very nature of our existence provide light to those who are near us and thus fulfil what Jesus spoke of in Matthew 5:16.

Lord, I desire to be able to testify as Paul did and say it with the assurance of your presence and salvation, I have finished well.

Your servant,

Rick