Hey Friend, Bring The Coat

Have you ever been reading Scripture and something made you instantly stop? It may have made you wonder what the author meant when he penned the words. Why was it significant enough to be compiled in The Holy Spirit and One True Word?

I found myself reading in the New Testament book of 2 Timothy.  Another letter written by the apostle Paul to his coworker Timothy.  It’s believed that Paul wrote this letter (likely some of the others, too) from prison.  All to encourage, even in the face of severe persecution on his end.

As I was reading, I came to the last chapter.  I’ll admit, sometimes I tend to overlook the subheadings that indicate final greetings. Usually, they say hello and tell someone to keep up the good work.  Not that it doesn’t matter; I just haven't paid much attention until now.

Look at these verses.  Don’t miss it.

2 Timothy 4:9-13

Timothy, please come as soon as you can. Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.  I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, be sure to bring the coat I left with Carpus at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers.

I’m not sure about you, but I wonder about the significance of that coat.  Did Paul need a jacket because of the current weather conditions?  Did it hold sentimental value?  Did he accidentally leave it when he left?  Whatever the reason, the words were etched in the Bible.  Words kept and preserved for thousands of years, and will be around for years to come.

I was reminded that in my life, things that I may view as insignificant or unimportant mean a great deal to God.  God never grows tired of the details of our lives.  He loves us completely, even the parts we don’t like or may overlook.  He’s not offended if we accidentally leave our coats somewhere.  He’s not upset if we get distracted.  

I’m not sure what Paul meant by bringing that jacket, but there was significance to it.  This challenges me regarding my prayer life.  All the things matter.  If it matters to us, it matters to God.

If something is weighing on you today, bring it to God.  There’s nothing that could scare Him or make Him love you any less than He already does.  Whatever is essential to a child of God is vital to the Father.  He promises to always be with us.  I’m reminded that this coat held significance for Paul.  And it mattered to God.

The same goes for us.