The words that people say to us do not just pass into one ear and go out from the other.
Whatever the nature or content of the words, they linger on in our minds and some words even take root in our hearts.
So we will remember some of the words our parents said to us, and what our friends said to us.
And for some people that we know we will not meet them again for a long time, or may probably not meet them again, we will remember their last words to us.
In the 1st reading, when St. Paul was bidding farewell to the elders of the church of Ephesus, they will certainly remember his last words to them.
They may not see him again but they loved him and they know that he cared for them.
St. Paul had these profound words for them: Be on your guard for yourselves and for all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you the overseers.
He continued by saying that fierce wolves will invade and will have no mercy on the flock, and even from within, there will be enemies of the church who will cause division and breakup.
St. Paul concluded by saying that he will commend them to God, and to the Word of His grace that has power to build up and be faithful.
We too must remember those words of St. Paul and those that are recorded in the Scriptures.
Those words are inspired by God.
When we remember them, we will have life, be able to resist temptation, and grow in faith, hope and love.