2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5 / Luke 10:1-9
In the 27 books in the New Testament, 13 are attributed to St. Paul. Out of those 13 book, there are some which are personal letters to individuals.
In both the alternative 1st readings, we get to read a portion of those personal letters to individuals.
St. Paul was a prolific writer, but in those personal letters, he bared his heart to the one he was writing to.
He called Timothy "dear child of mine" (as in a spiritual son) and encouraged him to keep the faith and to have the courage given by the Spirit in bearing witness to Jesus.
He also called Titus "true child of mine in the faith that we share" and explained that he left Titus behind in Crete because he had work there for him to do.
Timothy and Titus were disciples of St. Paul and his co-workers. St. Paul loved them and was concerned about them and expressed it in his letters.
The fact that these letters survived and was incorporated into the New Testament showed that Timothy and Titus treasured those letters from St. Paul.
Those letters were about the only concrete reminders for them of St. Paul, and what he taught them and the memorable times they had in doing God's work together.
The spoken word can be powerful, yet the written word can have a more lasting effect and also it can be a source of encouragement and support for the addressee.
May we also take time out to write a word of encouragement and support to our friends and loved ones. A short sincere note will certainly go a long way for them.