I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. 2 Timothy 1:5-6.
Paul the apostle wrote two letters to a young preacher named Timothy. In the first letter to Timothy, Paul calls him “my true son in the faith,” referring to the affection he had for Timothy and to the relationship that was fostered by their common commitment to Jesus.
Timothy’s faith existed because of the teaching and guidance he received from his mother (Eunice) and grandmother (Lois). Clearly, these two women helped form Timothy’s character and create in him a desire to serve God.
Paul met Timothy in Lystra in modern-day Turkey where Timothy had gained a good reputation among the believers. Paul was impressed with the influence Timothy that he had in Lystra and Derbe. Influence that, no doubt, emerged from Timothy’s maturity and grasp of God’s work.
Paul witnessed in Timothy a preparation for something larger than what he was doing in Lystra and Derbe. What if Timothy’s sphere increased? Paul saw Timothy’s wisdom and ability, so he asked Timothy to join him and Silas as they went back to check on churches they had previously planted. To be involved in that enterprise provided Timothy more preparation to be an effective disciple and preacher.
Kudos to Paul who recognized the importance of keeping his role of mentor (someone who provides guidance, support, and advice) to his young mentee. Paul’s two letters serve as that kind of on-going training. Also his reminder to “rekindle the gift God gave you,,” Paul’s way of saying, you’ve fallen asleep at the wheel.”
Preparation or training is a preoccupation of those who recognize the potential of individuals to be better and to do better. Preparation best occurs in trusting relationships, where one understands the value a single human has. The mentor seeks to find ways to encourage and instruct because they know the good outcome that can be had in such preparation.
I love Paul’s encouragement to his mentee, Timothy. “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive God’s approval.” Good words to hear from a wise brother.
O God, we are so encouraged by the relationship that Paul and Timothy had. Also by the people who looked after younger Timothy’s growth in the faith. What a difference that made in his preparation to be your disciple. Please help us to be so. In Jesus’ name. Amen.