Thoughts & Reflections

On Mother’s Day, I am reminded of the influence of two women; grandmother and mother, in Timothy’s life and ministry. The story of Timothy is close to my heart as I grew up with great influence of my grandmother and mother.

Timothy's ministry was characterised by a commitment to preaching the Gospel, nurturing believers, providing pastoral care, and advancing the mission of the early church. As a trusted co-worker of Paul, Timothy played a key role in the spread of Christianity and the establishment of Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire.

The influence of Timothy's grandmother and mother in his life and ministry is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In 2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV), Paul writes to Timothy, saying: 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” From this verse, it is evident that Timothy's grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, played a significant role in shaping Timothy's faith and character. Lois likely played a key role in passing down her faith to Eunice and then to Timothy. Growing up in a household where faith was valued and practised would have laid a strong foundation for Timothy's own spiritual journey.

Lois and Eunice may have discipled Timothy as he grew up. They likely have nurtured his spiritual formation, encouraged him in his walk with God, and helped him navigate challenges or doubts he may have faced. Their investments in Timothy's spiritual formation laid a foundation for his future ministry. Timothy's sincere faith, mentioned by Paul, suggests that he was deeply influenced by the faith of his grandmother and mother.

Timothy would have observed both women’s devotion to God firsthand, witnessing her prayer life, acts of worship, and service to others. Their examples would have shaped Timothy's understanding of what it means to live a life dedicated to God and influenced his own commitment to serving Christ.

Both women laid the groundwork for Timothy to become a faithful disciple, trusted companion of Paul, and influential leader in the early Christian church. As Timothy pursued his calling in ministry, his grandmother and mother would have been a source of encouragement and support. Their prayers and words of wisdom would have strengthened him during times of doubt or difficulty. Knowing that he had the backing of his grandmother and mother would have given Timothy added confidence in his ministry endeavours.

My grandmother and mother did not pass their faith to me but their values, perseverance and resilience are ingrained in me. These shaped me to be what I am and still very much so now. When I had Christ in my life at 17 years old, the process of influence reversed. They died with the hope we shall meet again. If like me, you did not have a grandmother or mother like Timothy, you can be the daughter or grand-daughter who brings hope to them. You can be the grandmother Lois and mother Eunice to the “Timothys” God has entrusted you. Disciple-making starts in the home. May we never live to see a generation that doesn’t know Christ.

“May all who come behind us find us faithful,
May the fire of our devotion light their way.
May the footprints that we leave, lead them to believe,
and the lives we live inspire them to obey.
May all who come behind us find us faithful”

Wan Leng HO