and this is why I am suffering. Still, I am not ashamed of it; I know whom I have trusted and I am certain he is able to keep what I have put into his hands till the great Day.

Keep the great securities of your faith intact, by aid of the holy Spirit that dwells within us.

(may he find favour with the Lord on the great Day! The Lord grant it!). And you know very well what a help he was to me in Ephesus.

In any great house there are indeed vessels not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for noble, some for menial service.

Now the crown of a good life awaits me, with which the Lord, that just Judge, will reward me on the great Day ??and not only me but all who have loved and longed for his appearance.

Luke is the only one who is with me. Pick up Mark and bring him along with you, for he is of great use in helping me.