Previous snippets focussing on the first part of the key verse can be found here and here.

Paul instructed Timothy to come to him twice, as well as to bring Mark and several items with him, knowing his death was imminent (2 Ti 4:6,9,13,21).  His determination to continue until his last breath to glorify our Lord (2 Ti 4:18) is inspiring. I suggest each request corresponds to a fundamental principle of service, in the:

• summoning Mark and Timothy (2 Ti 4:13), he showed it is important (where possible) to serve with at least one other person (Ecc 4:9-10, Mat 10:1-4).
• asking for his cloak he demonstrates his resolve to remain physically fit. This reflects two truths in scripture, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Co 6:19) and, maintaining physical health is beneficial as it enables us to honour and glorify our Lord (1 Tim 4:8).
• desiring to have his books and parchments he shows that he was intent on being mentally and spiritually prepared to serve our Lord (2 Ti 2:15) whatever situation he was going to find himself in.

Paul, staring into death’s face, was determined to continue until the very end. We too can have the same zeal and determination when we recognise that the Lord is our helper (Heb 13:6) and will rescue us and bring us safely into his heavenly kingdom (2 Ti 4:18).