As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. – 2 Timothy 1:4-7
Paul was an older witness of God reminding his younger counterpart, Timothy, not to be afraid. He longed to see him because he knew the importance of relational ministry and looked to pour his life out for others. Paul does a classic mentor strategy here: remind them of the past, then provide a compelling vision for the future.
Who was your grandmother Lois?
I was lucky enough to have a grandmother who prayed for me. She was far from perfect, but her faith grabbed hold of my mom who, again imperfectly but faithfully, presented it to me. It took longer to come to full term with me – I’m stubborn. But never underestimate the power of a praying parent or grandparent. It may take generations, but God moves when God is proclaimed. Paul reminds Timothy to remember where he came from. Essentially, he is saying “remember what God did.”
What is the gift from God you need to fan into a flame?
Paul then looks to the future and encourages his friend to take the next steps. I believe Paul laid hands on Timothy and spoke a unique vision for his life. He was reminding Timothy of his past, while gently whispering “take the next step”.
Odds are, your faith came from somewhere. Whether it be from family, or a friend who invited you to something, or a sermon you heard online, it started in a moment surrounded by the ministry of others. You are an answered prayer. Your responsibility is to take that faith, and create something beautiful. It has been entrusted to you for this generation, at this particular time, in your unique context. Your faith is no accident but a catalyst for something greater. May it burn with Holy abandon. May it cultivate a generational love.
* The above painting is one of my favorites. I first saw it hanging up in the home of a humble example of what I spoke of above. It, and they, illustrate the gentle love of Christ that I frequently refer to frequently in my mind warmly.
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