This lection is for the Thursday before Trinity Sunday. Paul writes of the reality that Jesus Christ has always been coexistent with God the Father since before the beginning of time (chronos) which is recorded time as opposed to kairos time (God’s seasons of time, not limited to a human frame of reference). Here, Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel and to join him in suffering for the gospel. It is faith in a God who destroyed death (v. 10) and who brings life and immortality to light (v. 10b) that gives Paul the strength to stand firm in his convictions. Then Paul writes something that I see as a parallel to the Holy Trinity: that he was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher. Although Paul was one person, he was appointed to three unique roles as he served God. Perhaps a three-fold call to discipleship. And Paul gives all the glory back to God for any and all that he does. For Paul was convinced that God was “able” to keep Paul and all things committed to God in safe keeping. Grace and peace, Pastor Bob