Spiritual Roots

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Scripture – 2 Timothy 1:1-4: ¹Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, ²To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. ³I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. ⁴Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Paul had an intriguing life story. He had been a Pharisee – an expert in the Jewish law – a loyal soldier in God’s service. When he refers to his “forefathers” here, he’s referring to faithful Jews. In his experience, he came to recognize “the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.” He didn’t leave his Jewish roots. He grew from them. He continued serving the same God. My story’s not nearly as dramatic as Paul’s. At the same time, I continue growing from the spiritual roots of my parents and grandparents into ever new experiences of grace and adventure.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will stay open today to whatever new thing God has for me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for the growth that’s taken place in me. Thank you for the growing that’s yet to come. Help me live today as your person.