I smiled at the yellowed recipe card. Memories rushed back at the sight of my grandmother’s familiar handwriting. She lovingly prepared this very dish for many family feasts. As she got older, there were lots of grandchildren and even great-children to help with the cooking, but she always insisted on contributing. Today, years after her death, my grandmother’s recipes are still found at family gatherings.
Her love of cooking was not the only thing my grandmother shared with her family. She always told us what God was teaching her and she strongly encouraged each of us in our own faith. She often wrote us notes or sent timely devotionals. And she never stopped praying. My grandmother actively passed her faith to the next generation. Her faith fostered mine.
The faith of our family and close friends plays a vital role in the development of our own faith. The following passage from Paul’s second letter to his spiritual son, Timothy, illustrates this truth.
3 Timothy, I thank God for you—the God I serve with a clear conscience, just as my ancestors did. Night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 I long to see you again, for I remember your tears as we parted. And I will be filled with joy when we are together again. 5 I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. 6 This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. 2 Timothy 1:3-6, NLT
Spiritual Legacy
Paul was influenced by his ancestors’ example and encouraged by Timothy’s sincerity. Timothy’s mother and grandmother taught him their faith. He shared that same faith with others. From life to life and heart to heart, faith in Christ is passed from one to another.
My grandmother entrusted me with a precious gift – her faith. I must guard it, nurture it, and share it with my children. This commitment is a recipe for a legacy of faith.
Who has influenced and encouraged your faith?
In what tangible ways can you share your faith with your family and friends?
I believe that there were many in my family who passed on their faith; starting with father, uncle and actually my great-grandmother.
I pray that I too will leave a legacy of my faith; not only with family, but also friends that I have made over the years.
Iris, I pray the same thing. I know that often I get too “busy” to slow down and take the time to really talk to those I love about the things of God. I pray I will make it a priority!
My grandparents were such godly examples for me. My grandfather was so friendly and kind. I loved to go with him to the bakery where everyone knew his name. One time he heard Norwegian begin spoken in a store and immediately went over and started conversing in his native tongue. Next thing that happened is that family was invited to church and afterwards dinner at my grandparent’s home. He lived out his faith and it was such a good example for me.
Debbie, thanks for sharing that story about your grandfather! What a great example he set for his family!