Passing the torch

When I think of Timothy, I have a mental image of my well-worn copy of Luther’s Small Catechism. On its cover is a picture of Timothy as a child in the company of his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois. Eunice holds a scroll in her hands, and Timothy looks as if he is about to answer a question that his mother has just asked.

From Acts 16:1, we know that Timothy had a Greek father and a Jewish mother. In 2 Timothy 1:5, we find out that Timothy learned about the Jewish scriptures from his mother and grandmother. During one of Paul’s missionary trips, Timothy and his mother became Christians. Later, Timothy accompanied Paul as he brought the gospel message to the Gentiles.

In today’s reading, Paul sums up his life in a letter to Timothy and explains the importance of his life’s mission. Paul entrusts Timothy, who is like a son to him, to carry on his work.

Timothy’s faith came to him through his mother, grandmother and Paul. Taking stock, I realize that I came to have faith through my parents, my godmother, my aunt, dear friends and pastors. To whom have I passed the torch of faith?

Lord, show me more ways to share my faith. Amen. — CKA