When I read the readings for Wednesday today, the Holy Spirit reminded me that what Paul wrote to Timothy in the first reading is an excellent example of how the teachings found in scripture are still applicable today.
Paul wrote:
For this reason, I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.
Paul reminds his brother in Christ that he needs to "stir into flame the gift of God." It seems Timothy had been without Paul for some time and had become lax in his duties as a Christian leader. The fire of his calling had died out. As Paul goes on to explain, Timothy was not to be ashamed of his calling and that his soul contained the power of love and not the spirit of a coward. Finally, he reminds Timothy that his strength is in God.
The same is true for us. We need to constantly stir the flame of our faith and never be ashamed to proclaim Who our Lord and Savior is, and what He has done for us. To do anything less is cowardice and not of the Spirit our Lord gave us through our Baptisms and Confirmation. Our strength and hope is in God and, with God behind us, what else does one need?
No comments:
Post a Comment