I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
Throughout my journey with Christ, Timothy has been the biblical character I relate most with. As a young believer, I could easily read Paul’s letters to a young Timothy and often feel like he was writing directly to me. Even now, as an old man, his words resonate within me.
And this is one of those places. The task God has given me is not the same as what Timothy had (1 Tim. 1:3-4). Yet, Paul’s charge to Timothy still hits home. I am not a preacher, nor do I have much occasion to rebuke or reprove. I am a teacher, however, and that should not be limited to just when it is convenient or at scheduled times.
Paul told Timothy (and me) to be ready in season and out of season. To be faithful to my calling whether it is convenient or not. To take advantage of every opportunity to share from God’s word.
But it means more than just that. This convicts me to be ready to help a brother or sister in need, whether it is convenient or not. To take advantage of every opportunity to demonstrate love to those I encounter. Always respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Always be ready to share the good news from the Bible. Even when it is not convenient or if there is something else I would rather do instead.
“Be ready when the time is right and even when it is not [keep your sense of urgency, whether the opportunity seems favorable or unfavorable, whether convenient or inconvenient, whether welcome or unwelcome]”
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