“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.” – 2 Timothy 1:5, NIV
Timothy’s mother was Eunice, a Jewish woman who married a Greek man. Lois was his grandmother. She was most likely his mother’s mother, given that her sincere faith is referenced. The family may have lived together in one home since it wasn’t unusual to have several generations under one roof.
Very little is known of Timothy’s father. But Paul, Timothy’s mentor, was known to use terms of endearment for Timothy like “my son whom I love” (1 Corinthians 4:17) and “my true son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2). This has led many scholars to suspect that Timothy’s father may have died when he was young, leaving just Eunice and Lois to raise him.
The two women may not have realized it at the time, but they were shaping the heart and mind of a young boy who would go on to missionary journeys and lead a church at a very young age.
Just like God had a plan for Timothy’s life, He has a plan for the life of your little one, too. Maybe your child will become a doctor, a missionary, or an artist who changes the world with their vibrant faith.
God, help me to be like Eunice and Lois. Let me share Your words and Your heart with the generations that come after me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
