“Come Before Winter”

Joshua Welch

The first day of winter, for the northern hemisphere, occurs on the “winter solstice.” This year, winter solstice occurs on December 21st. Winter is a slower, more restful time for some households. There are no flowers to plant, grass to cut, and leaves to rake. Outdoor sports slow down in the cold. It gets dark early making for earlier evenings. While winter prohibits us from certain actions, it opens the door to other opportunities as well. So, instead of looking at winter with the dread of the bleak cold and darkness we can optimistically consider its value.

Enduring winter reminds us of a comment Paul makes in the final chapter of his last epistle to Timothy, “Do your utmost to come before winter” (2 Timothy 4:21). In fact, if we look at the context of this passage we will find three simple things Paul wanted as he prepared for the winter ahead.

He wanted spiritual companions. Winter can be a depressing time for some. The seasonal “winter blues” can make winter difficult. Facing the holidays is not always enjoyable for those who are grieving, lonely, or who have fractured families. Brothers and sisters in Christ can offer us encouragement during these difficult times. This is why Paul says to Timothy, “Be diligent to come to me quickly” and “Get Mark and bring him with you” in the context (2 Timothy 4:9,11). Paul wanted spiritual encouragers during the winter ahead before travel by sea was impossible. Of course, for Paul, this may have been the last opportunity to see these spiritual helpers (cp. 2 Timothy 4:6-8). Who can you give needed companionship to this winter?

He wanted to be warm. Paul writes to Timothy, “Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come…” (4:13). Paul writes from a cold prison with few luxuries (1:8). So, the basic necessities were needful. As we think of others during this bitter cold of winter may we do what we can to ensure others have their basic needs cared for (cp. Matthew 25:36; James 4:14-17). The “worthy woman” was “not afraid of snow for her household” because she ensured they had proper clothing (Proverbs 31:21). Worthy Christians look out for those who are poor and destitute to ensure they are properly clothed as well.

He wanted to be able to write and study. Paul adds, “Bring…the books, especially the parchments” (2 Timothy 4:13). Winter may slow things down so we have more time to read and write and meditate. Paul planned to use the winter season to do more research and writing as time allowed. May we also use this slower season to spend more time reading about God’s Word and using our pen and parchment to journal our thoughts or to encourage others. What can you accomplish during the slow season of winter you fail to accomplish in the busier seasons? Use the slower time to read God’s Word and to purposefully write to edify and encourage others. Spring will be here before you know it. In the meantime, use your winter wisely.

Via  Market Street Messenger, Athens, AL.