Colossians 4 - 5.5.23

Scripture

Colossians 4:17

Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” 

Observation

Paul is writing his final remarks in his letter to the Christians in Colossae. And right before the last line, he singles out Archippus, challenging him to make sure he completes the ministry he received from God.

That encouragement, phrased strongly almost as a command, is a reminder to me that completing things isn’t automatic. As a matter of fact, there are many people in scripture who started well but finished poorly. And I don’t want to be one of them.

Application

See to it that I complete the ministry I’ve received.

I know I can’t do anything on my own, but only through Christ in me. So for me to “see to it” means that I connect to Jesus, the “True Vine,” to continually supply the strength, grace, vision, passion, and everything else I need to finish well.

Prayer

God, thank you so much for giving me a ministry to begin with. You’ve given me a ministry to my wife, to love her and help her to experience all you have in store for her. You’ve given me a ministry to my kids, to disciple them and raise them to know and love and serve you. You’ve given me a ministry to your church, to love and serve and pastor them. Thank you for entrusting me with so much. I really want to be faithful. I really want to finish strong and complete all the ministry you have in mind for me. So I look to you today. Fill me and empower me and help me to complete the ministry I’ve received, whatever that looks like. All my hope and trust in in you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

-Levi Thompson