Passing the torch – Bonds between generations

2 Timothy 1:3b-4
{3} … as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, {4} longing to see you, even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy.

The words of Paul echo not just a relationship between a teacher and a student but a strong emotional bond between the Apostle and Timothy his understudy. Individuals who share the experiences of conflict and hardship together develop strong relationships which last long beyond the environment of partnered difficulties. Paul was not just writing to a student who attended his lectures in a sterile classroom environment, he was writing to a disciple in whom he himself had invested much.

What would happen in our churches if we began to view our generational divides in such a manner? What if older generations took seriously the responsibility of passing the torch on to those who were coming after them? What if younger generations honestly viewed senior adults as individuals of worth and wisdom from whom much could be gained?

A great obstacle which keeps older generations from teaching is a lack of credibility in spiritual maturity. Timothy could look at Paul and know for certain that what he had to say was not based on personal whims and traditions of man. Timothy knew Paul to be a giant of the faith, a man who viewed the gospel in such a serious manner that he was willing to be imprisoned for it. A great obstacle which keeps younger generations from receiving the teaching of older generations is the lack of respect. Those who have sacrificed for the gospel must and should be honored.

A major tenet of the relationship between Paul and Timothy was one of love. Paul’s words are tender. He remembers the time he had with Timothy. He remembers their struggles together. He remembers the openness of a relationship where tears were shed with no shame. It is the hope of Paul as seen in this verse and in the concluding passage of 2 Timothy to see Timothy face to face.

Prayer
Lord help me be willing to learn from my elders and help me also teach those who come after me. Strengthen the fellowship of my church. Help me to build lasting relationships with my brothers and sisters in Christ so that we can work together to pass the torch of the gospel from one generation to another. In Jesus name, Amen.