In the Introduction to The Second Letter to Timothy (NABRE), we read: “The letter suggests that Timothy should prepare others to replace himself as Paul has prepared Timothy to replace him.”

It is important to keep this in mind when we hear Paul’s advice: “…proclaim the word; … convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching… perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:2,5).

If we are going to listen to what the Spirit might be telling us with these words, we must begin where Paul ends. What is our ministry? What is our role?

Timothy was being prepared to fulfill the office of bishop. His task to proclaim, convince, teach, and evangelize would have looked different from mine. As a layperson, if I were to try to “convince, reprimand, and encourage” in a way that is not part of my ministry, I might end up proselytizing rather than evangelizing. God asks us to be faithful to our call, but he is the one in charge of the results.

“The proof that God is the center of a soul is when God’s truth is her joy, when the will of God is her happiness, when God’s love is her inspiration, the great engine, and the great virtue of her life.” (Saint Peter Julian Eymard, A Thought Per Day)

Our reward is not measured by how many people convert. No, we are just called to live and love as Christ taught us, and give others the respect they deserve as adults. Their freedom is not impeded when we live in the freedom of the children of God. This freedom is attractive in itself; the soul recognizes truth, beauty, and goodness. We just need to be ready to share the reason for our joy.

Let us pray:

Lord, you know our hearts, and you know the hearts of those around us. During this month dedicated to your Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, fill us with your love and help us radiate your joy to all we encounter. May our lives gently invite others to seek you, the reason for our joy. Amen.