August 10, 2022 -- I Timothy 1:1-2 -- Each one reach one

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope,
   To Timothy, my true child in the faith:
Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
I Timothy 1:1-2 ESV

Such tenderness in this greeting. Paul is writing to Timothy, his true child in the faith. In the next letter to Timothy, Paul calls him "my beloved child". Paul knew Timothy’s mother and grandmother—women of faith. Timothy’s father, it seems, was not a believer. So Paul stands in as a father-figure, a man of faith to disciple and bless Timothy. What an honoured role that is.

Men of God, women beloved of Jesus, whom are you mentoring? Who is younger in the faith than you are? To whom are you giving special time and attention? You can write an encouraging email. You can send a text with a special bible verse. You can meet up for coffee (or tea or well, you get the idea). Who is lacking a parent in the faith and needs encouragement, prayer and mentoring?

We are always so busy. There are work commitments. There are family commitments. There are lawns to mow and “to do” lists waiting to be completed. However, Christians know our greatest responsibility and highest joy is communicating our precious faith. It is Jesus' final command: "go and make disciples of all nations". As you teach others, your own faith is confirmed. As you hear a young believer’s confession of faith and growing excitement at the work of Jesus Christ, you yourself are reignited in passion for the work of Christ.

Ask God, “who have You put in my life so that I can mentor that one?” Trust that the Spirit of God will lead you to the right one who is suited to learn from you and grow up in our precious faith. Everyone has something to teach. I remember as a young minister, being invited to the bedside of a dying woman. She was a strong believer. Her testimony to God’s goodness and desire to sing hymns even with her dying breaths impacted me so strongly. I was given a powerful impression of what a good death. Even at the time of dying Christ is adored and faith is becoming sight. In Mark 5 a man who’d had a legion of demons cast out of him was told by Jesus, go and tell your family and friends. All he knew is that Jesus healed him. That was enough. Whatever you know of Jesus is enough. Keep learning more. And keep sharing Him.

Go and serve your King!

What a tender title, to call You, Mighty God, Our Father! Thank You for those whom You have put into our lives who teach us to know You better. Blessed are You, Faithful LORD of Heaven and Earth, for sending Your Spirit to testify to Jesus--Who is The Way, The Truth and The Life--Who brings us without blemish or spot into Your presence. Forgive our tunnel vision focused on the things of this world. Broaden our vision, enlarge our hearts, so that the precious knowledge of Jesus Christ is what we teach and declare. Spirit of the Living God, help us to see who You have put in our path, who needs to know about Jesus and His great, sacrificial love. Let the testimony of Jesus and His love impact this generation and in turn may we teach others to deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Him--this, the greatest and highest and truest adventure of all life. Amen.

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