In the first reading St Paul tells the presbyters from Miletus that, impelled by the Spirit, he is on his way to Jerusalem. From there he will eventually journey on to Rome which for the people of the Eastern Mediterranean at that time was "at the ends of the earth". St.Paul is a driven man. The speed of the narrative increases. Almost since the beginning of his missionary journeys he has been in constant danger from the attacks of those who oppose his teachings.Now he is in even greater danger but he burns to finish the task entrusted to him. In tomorrow's first reading we see his great affection for the people of Miletus. They beg him not to put himself in further danger. As his ship leaves Miletus, they are heartbroken.

All through this long and painful farewell Paul is hoping for one thing above all. He tells the people that all his sufferings will be worthwhile if they take his message to heart and act on it. He begs them to continue to live a changed life, to have faith in Jesus and to build upon the unfailing grace of God.

It must have been a great experience to have known Paul and to have seen him at work. He may have been a bit fiery at times but his sincerity and generosity far outweighed any impatience or outspokeness on his part. He would die to help those he loved so dearly.