2 Timothy 2:20-22 (NIV)
20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. 21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Reflection:
Crafting a high quality sword is a complex process, which requires much expertise and time. The process requires a combination of many factors including choosing the right steel with the right carbon content, purification of the metal, blade design, and the actual forging process under high heat. When done properly the result is a beautiful and strong instrument, an instrument ready to be tested in battle.
As Christians, we have been given the wonderful opportunity of becoming useful instruments of the Lord as we join Him in the advancement of His Kingdom. In this life, we are faced with choices that will lead us down either an honorable or dishonorable path, but we have been called by the Lord to honor him; being prepared to do His good work. In this passage, Timothy is encouraged to run, to flee from anything that would be dishonorable. Instead, he is to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, together with the community of believers in seeking a pure heart before the Lord.
Responding to the Transmission:
Yes, we have been called for greater things in this life, and as we choose to honor the Lord we will be shaped into useful instruments for the Lord’s service. Let’s spend time in prayer asking for the Spirit’s empowering to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace together with the community; seeking a pure heart before the Lord.
