“Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry. Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.” – 2 Timothy 4:9-13
In this passage, Paul’s personal appeal surfaces in the concluding section of his brief letter, shedding light on the essence of “the aroma of Christ” within him. Drawing from his statement in 2 Corinthians 2:15, Paul emphasizes that believers in Jesus should exude the essence of Christ.
Paul’s request in the letter to Timothy encompasses several aspects. Initially, he urges Timothy to hasten his arrival, in which a humane side of the apostle is revealed. This plea contrasts with the earlier sentiments in 2 Corinthians 1, where Paul grapples with despair and relies solely on God’s comfort during hardship. Sensing the imminent challenges of winter—when harsh winds freeze seas, impeding travel—Paul implores Timothy to expedite his visit, feeling abandoned by many who have departed, leaving only Luke, the devoted doctor, by his side. Amidst this isolation, Paul yearns for Timothy’s presence, seeking solace in companionship. This portrayal of Paul may not be as typical as in other references to him in the Bible, yet it stands as a reason why we love this Apostle—his dignity at the same time humanity.
Additionally, Paul requests specific items—his cloak and parchments left in Troas—indicating his physical discomfort and the value he places on these essentials for sustenance. The mention of the parchments signifies the significance of the Scriptures, symbolizing the warmth the Word of God provides amid life’s chill.
Paul’s third entreaty involves Mark’s company during the forthcoming arduous winter, an episode often hailed by theologians for its profound lessons. Mark, initially estranged due to his departure from a difficult journey during the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas, embodies the concept of ‘no turning back,’ a principle pivotal in discipleship. Paul’s reconciliation with Mark reflects the importance of fostering unity amidst differing opinions and disputes within collaborative endeavors. Paul’s desire to reconcile and embrace Mark illustrates the significance of preserving relationships and not losing people, akin to Jesus’ unwavering commitment to Judas despite the looming betrayal.
With emphasis on the importance of love, the last part of the letter to Timothy indicates Paul’s enduring memory of Mark and his efforts to mend past misunderstandings during this wintry phase. We witness the Apostle Paul through the power of love as a tool to endure life’s harsh winters, fosters both warmth and unity within communities.