Crossing the generation gap

Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith, and purity. Until I come, give your time and effort to the public reading of the Scriptures and to preaching and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift that is in you, which was given to you when the prophets spoke and the elders laid their hands on you.     (verses 12- 14)

Read 1 Timothy 4: 1-16

While many elderly people of our time feel useless and disregarded, during the first century there was deep respect for the maturity and wisdom of elders.

So perhaps it was surprising that someone as young  as Timothy was chosen by Paul for a leadership role in the church. Although he had received a spiritual gift and the blessing of the elders for his new task, Timothy may have experienced some anxiety about his position of authority. In this letter to his protégé, Paul wanted to prepare Timothy for his responsibilities by carefully instructing the young man in what he must do ‘until I come’.

At various times in your life you may have wished for an experienced and kindly person like Paul to give you guidance in a difficult situation. Maybe you made mistakes that you now regret. On the other hand, perhaps now you have the resources and understanding to help a younger person who, like Timothy, may be facing a difficult situation.

Dear Father in heaven, thank you for your guidance in difficult times. Show me how I can help others who are uncertain and who need the support of someone who cares. Amen.

by Margaret Hunt, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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