Autumn
Autumn may be compared to the end of one's natural life, but it also indicates the last days of the assembly's history on earth. It was in autumn when Paul wrote:
The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.... Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick. Do thy diligence to come before winter. 2 Tim. 4:13, 20, 21.
No doubt Paul felt the need of warmth in his prison cell as the chilling gusts of autumn wind pierced his skin. But what bit more deeply than the cold winds was the realization that many had forsaken him. "Notwithstanding," he said, "the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me." v. 17. We have the same resource today.
Trophimus was sick and in the last days many are spiritually ill and weak. Paul desired Timothy to come before winter set in. Timothy's coming would warm the soul of this venerable servant of God. It must have done his heart good to see a younger brother who still cared for him and his ministry. Paul's writings from the prison in Rome give needed truth for the days of autumn, a day of falling away and giving up.
Soon the icy conditions of winter will prevail again as all who love the Lord Jesus will be caught up to be with Him. The principles of opposition to the truth which will rise to their peak after the assembly is gone are felt even now.
Still, there is encouragement, even in a day of decline. Ephraim will say upon his restoration, "I am like a green fir tree." Hos. 14:8. May we be as an evergreen tree even in the days of autumn. When all around is giving evidence of death, we may enjoy communion with the Lord and be characterized by the very life of Christ. He will say, "From Me is thy fruit found.”
Autumn is similar to sunset. On the positive side, some of the most beautiful sights and colors are seen just before the leaves fall, or the sun sets. Many older saints give the richest display of Christ in their lives just before they are called home.
It is good to recognize that though we live in the days of autumn, we may be characterized by spring and summer. Paul's ministry is not only appropriate, but necessary for us in all seasons.
W. Brockmeier