Elucidate, Elucubrate, Validate

S
(2 Timothy 1:2) To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

O
Scholars presume that Timothy’s father, a Greek unbeliever (Acts 16:1), was probably no longer alive. That speculation has nothing to do with the truthfulness of Paul’s salutation. First, Paul served Timothy in a nurturing, guiding capacity--a necessary fatherly role. Second, this role was characterized by (1) elucidation (bringing light and clarity to the dark frustrations of life), (2) elucidation (laboring hard in behind-the-scenes study and service), and (3) validation (affirming the reality of God’s work and will in Timothy’s life).

A
All too often our perceptions of reality are based on misguided, misinformed stories that other people repeat. All too often I allow my private, un-worded fears to whisper into the ears of my timid will. For others, too, all too often false but loud and dominant narratives are believed instead of the less vocalized, less believed truth.

P

Good Shepherd, I want to hear and need to hear Your voice. Help me to know truth and to speak it into other people’s lives. Help me to validate in them Your glorious image and goodnesses.