Acts 21. The Apostle Paul’s farewell tour continues as he and his companions set sail repeatedly; island hopping across Greece and the Mediterranean. It’s interesting that there are disciples in nearly every place they visit. That itself is a testimony to the pervasiveness of the gospel and Paul’s commitment to seeing the good news spread.

In the previous chapter Paul met with leaders from Ephesus (20:17-38). It was a heart-wrenching scene as they become aware that they will not see his face again. There is prayer, weeping, embracing, and sorrow. Next, in the city of Tyre, all the disciples, their spouses, and children came out to spend time with Paul. They prayed together and said their farewells again (21:4-6). Then Paul and his companions went on to Caesarea and spent time with Philip and others (21:7-14).

In each city where Paul spent time with fellow disciples, they all seemed to know that they would not see Paul again. They told Paul not to go to Jerusalem. A prophet spoke and declared, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, this is how the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.” And they urged him not to go to Jerusalem. (21:11-12)

Imagine what it would be like to say goodbye to someone when you knew you would not see them again. What thoughts and feelings would you experience?

I remember last fall when my mother was dying from Parkinsons. My mother lived in the same city as me, so I could stop in and see her daily. But my sister lives in California, and every time she would come to visit my mom, leaving was such a difficult thing. How do you say goodbye and walk out the door, when you don’t know if it is the last time you will see someone?

Reflect again on Paul’s words: I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish the course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God (20:24).

Paul knew his mission. He was committed to it, and he knew he had run his race well. He also knew the Lord Jesus very well, and he knew that he would be in the presence of God when he died. It was Paul who wrote for me, to live is Christ, to die is gain (Philippians 1:21). Death was not the thing that preoccupied Paul’s mind; being faithful to testify to the work of God was much more important to him than staying safe.

Paul went to Jerusalem, there was a riot, and he was imprisoned (21:27-36). I don’t think he was surprised.

What do you want to be able to say at the end of your life?

What steps do you need to take now so that you will finish your race well?