BRING THE PARCHMENTS

          The apostle Paul’s last recorded words are recorded in his second epistle to Timothy.  The last chapter of that brief letter provides a glimpse into Paul’s state of mind while imprisoned.  He senses that his days on earth are soon to end - - I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure (2Tim.4:6).  His words are heartbreaking:  At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be held against them (vs.16).  Yet his trust is in the Lord remains firm:  The Lord stood with me (and) The Lord will deliver me (vss.17-18). 

         Hidden in the midst of his last written words is 2Tim.4:13 - - When you come, bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus and the books, above all the parchments.  The cold of winter was rapidly approaching (vs.21) and he needed his coat.  How pitiful that there were none to offer him a warm garment.  But more than anything (above all), Paul expressed a deep yearning for THE PARCHMENTS - - the sacred writings of the Old Testament inscribed on the membranes of animal hides, which assured their longevity as opposed to documents written on papyrus.  Knowing the apostle Paul, these words are not surprising.  For Paul the choice between a winter cloak and the parchments was a no-brainer.  Especially, above all else, he wanted The Parchments.  Oh that we, like Paul, might grow so as to earnestly cherish the Word of God more than anything else. 

                                           Terry Siverd / Cortland Church of Christ