Today Louise and I visited Paul’s prison in Rome. This, according to archaeologists, is where Paul wrote Colossians – which I am preaching from these days – plus 1 and 2 Timothy, Ephesians and Philippians). This is a small cold, damp, dark dungeon with no illumination except from a hole in the ceiling (from which he was lowered and through which he got food). It is where Paul was kept as he waited for his final summons, having written:
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing” (2 Tim.4:6-8).
We were blessed to have about ten minutes there alone, and then other tourists began showing up.
Having preached the previous Sunday on “Mysterious Reasons for Suffering” from Colossians 1:24 at Kensington Temple, I was filled with awe. Knowing how much the Apostle Paul suffered – and how little I have suffered, I felt so unworthy. I tried to pray, but felt speechless. I could only lean on Jesus’ intercession to the Father knowing He prays according to the Father’s will (John 5:19), and I thus live by Jesus’ faith (Gal.2:20).
As I say in my sermon on Colossians 1:24, there are two levels of suffering: (1) persecution for His Name (highest level); (2) any kind of suffering (physical pain, financial reverse, health issues, personal hurt, vindication withheld – whatever). We should count it pure joy if we fall into either category; that is, accept any measure of suffering with both hands (James 1:2). Just maybe, before it’s over, you and I will have our tiny bit of suffering upgraded to the Big League of suffering.
But are we ready for it? I pray so.
