Paul’s life would soon be cut short by a death sentence (2 Timothy 4:6-8), but there was still much to do for Jesus.  He longed that Timothy would come to see him, bringing a warm cloak and the writing scrolls he had left in Troas.  Paul was anticipating his own death but also the new spiritual life which would come as his assistant preached the gospel of repentance and forgiveness (Luke 24:46-47).  

As this letter shows, despite his own sufferings, Paul was still passionate for the gospel to be proclaimed strongly and faithfully.  That is why he wanted Mark (the gospel writer) to come as well, joining Luke (another gospel writer).  There was so much to say to them and be recorded so that people like us might know the truth about Jesus and the powerful way in which the Holy Spirit inspired the Early Church.
 
Others had left Paul. The saddest departure was Demas, who had backslidden because he loved the world more than he loved Jesus.  But others, Crescens, Titus and Tychicus, had been strengthened by Paul and commissioned to go to other countries to encourage the church and preach the gospel.  Everybody was on the move sharing the gospel in different countries, as Paul was preparing to move to heaven.  It was critically important to Paul that a written record should be passed down to future generations.
 
Today, God’s people are moving all over the globe, in mission, on business and on holiday.  Wherever they go, the gospel goes with them.  But they must be sure to tell others.  Likewise, the internet is a wonderful way to communicate the love of God and the cross of Christ.  Over 30,000 people receive Word@Work every day.  Many believers have a personal blog and recommend www.crosscheck.org.uk to tell their friends about Jesus.  If you are a believer, you carry the gospel wherever you go ... just make sure that you do not hide it!