Thursday 4th January
Read 2 Timothy 1:6-8
“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.” (NIVUK)
We often think that our leaders should be moral exemplars, perfect in as many things as they can be. We hold them up against the standard of the Beatitudes but maintain they should be strong, charismatic leaders, able to make decisions altruistically and impartially, not subject to weakness but clearly blessed with power by God. Sometimes we need to remember that like us, they are a work in progress, pursuing holiness just as we are.
Paul, in his final words, is clearly marking out Timothy as his successor. It is worth pausing and reflecting on Timothy’s qualities. What makes him the obvious candidate to follow after Paul? In today’s vernacular Timothy would likely be considered an introvert. An introvert with health problems even. Yet Paul knows he is able to fulfil the responsibilities of Christian leadership because he knows the power of the God who has gifted Timothy.
Perhaps the role of the church is to recognise the gifts God has given His people and encourage them to use them for His glory despite the suffering and cost that may involve? Pray and trust that God is over all.
