While the Scriptures shed light on every age group, there are passages which are tailored to one particular life stage. The 4th chapter of Paul’s Second letter to Timothy speaks directly to those in their senior years. And that’s because in it, Paul himself not only identifies as an elder, but also a believer who is looking to his past, commenting on his present, and laying out his desires for the future.

Admitting that the time of his departure is at hand, he then proceeds to reflect on the stages of his life.

Looking back, he affirms that “he has competed well, has finished his race” and most importantly has “kept the faith.” He acknowledges how over those years, the Lord has “stood by him, rescued him, and given him strength.”

Reflecting on his present, he acknowledges the energy he has been spending in proclaiming The Word to the Gentiles, and, while during it, “has been poured out like a libation.”

Looking ahead, he trusts that the Lord will continue to rescue him from every threat, will bring him safely to His heavenly Kingdom, and in the end will gift him with “the crown of righteousness.”

This text is not only testimony to St. Paul, but is also encouragement to all sincere believers who are coming into their final years. Looking back over a faith-filled life, citing his activities in the present, and trustfully reaching out to a blessed ending, it encapsulates the life span of any dedicated disciple.

And to us in Vincent’s Family, it speaks not only of our Saint’s biography, but also of the past, present and future of those who would follow behind him — as indeed he himself followed steadily in the missionary footsteps of a St. Paul, all of us together walking to the rhythm of Jesus’ sacred pace.