JUNE52024

We start reading today for the Second Epistle to Timothy. Since this is ordinary time we go through the Biblical books as a continuous reading, “lectio continuo,” chapter by chapter. Occasionally certain verses in a particular chapter are omitted. That happened in today’s reading when verse 5 of chapter 1 was not included in the reading. . “⁵ 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.” Skipping this verse skews the entire sense of the passage. St. Paul wants Timothy to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. But that gift of God came because his family had planted it in Timothy’s heart long before St. Paul laid hands on him. Timothy as a third generation Christian was dependent on those who went before him. How easily we neglect those whose quiet, unsung dedication help us to live the faith. (And why are those overlooked too often the women?)  In prayer today it would be apt to give thanks to God for those who, like Lois and Eunice, embody the love of God for us.