Dear Friends,
Over the last few weeks, I have been thinking about Trinity Brighton’s Children’s Ministry. I am incredibly thankful for all the wonderful people who generously and thoughtfully serve in our Children’s Ministry, passing on the love of God and understanding of God’s Word to future generations.
Lately I have spent time thinking about the life of Timothy as I have been reading through Acts and Paul’s letters to Timothy. In Acts 16, Paul arrives in Lystra on his second missionary journey. Paul has been here before, and as a result, a church is established in Lystra. I am amazed by Paul’s courage to return as his previous visit to Lystra resulted in him being stoned and dragged out of the city, thought to be dead (Actsb14:19-20).
On his return, Paul discovers Timothy, a well-respected young man of Godly character, accepted by the Christian community (Acts 16:1-2). Paul’s efforts in Lystra on his first visit established a church that now raised a leader. Timothy goes on to be mentioned 25 times in the New Testament, becoming Paul’s most trusted assistant in spreading the Gospel. Paul refers to Timothy as “my true son” ( 1 Tim 1:2) and serves as his spiritual mentor and father.
But where does this all begin?
Paul gives the credit to Lois and Eunice, Timothy’s grandmother and mother.
I love that Lois and Eunice are mentioned by name, highlighting the importance of their role in raising Timothy. On a side note, fathers generally bore the responsibility for their sons’ education of the Torah within Jewish culture. Timothy’s father was Greek, and his mother and grandmother replaced him in this role as a teacher and role model, demonstrating a life dedicated to God.
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
2 Timothy 1:5
From this, we learn that our present efforts can raise a future generation who will speak the word of God. Our first task is to grow believers within our own homes, to model discipleship and love for Jesus so that others can follow. Being a Godly influence in the lives of our children, adult children, grandchildren, children around us and children in our churches is a valued role with tremendous and lasting reward. The prayers, time, and example we set, bringing children to church, and demonstrating our love for Jesus make all the difference. We are planting the seeds for the future and waiting to see how God uses them (although sometimes we may not know the result- which can be tricky). We are never to underestimate our evangelistic efforts within our households. We are reassured that this work is worthwhile and vital.
I realize that despite our efforts, ultimately, the work is God’s, and every individual will make their own choice. When our children do not live in a way that reflects our beliefs and values, it can be discouraging and challenging. God’s timing is perfect (although not always the same as ours). Do not be disheartened as we have a big and faithful God.
The Gospel Coalition website has an article about evangelism in families if you’d like some extra reading: https://au.thegospelcoalition.org/article/loving-your-family-is-evangelism/
I hope you have a fabulous week.
Jane Finlayson
Ministry Support Worker
Trinity Church Brighton
0430 071 973
www.trinity.church/brighton