I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother. - 2 Timothy 1:5

Here Paul reminds Timothy that he stands on the shoulders of faithful Christians in the past. We should never underestimate the value of supportive people in our lives. Behind the heroes of history stand individuals who enabled those heroes to succeed.
Take Johan von Stopitz, the friend and adviser to Martin Luther. Von Stopitz introduced Luther to biblical studies, taught him the value of grace, and defended Luther when he was widely criticized. Luther credited von Stopitz with helping him to keep going through the most challenging times he faced.
In 1536 William Farrell challenged John Calvin to remain in Geneva. That decision directly affected the course of the Protestant Reformation and the spread of Reformed theology.
The apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to practice his God-given spiritual gifts. Like supportive people today, Paul focused on the positive dimensions of life, reminding Timothy that God has given us a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
God calls us to recognize and thank those who have supported and encouraged us, and to reach out and encourage others. You never know what might become of a life that you touch with the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

REFLECTION

Who has been a person in your life who has been a support to you? If that person is still on this earth, communicate your thanks to them for their support of you. To whom can you be a source of support? When was the last time you demonstrated your support for your pastor, and others in your life who support you in your relationship with God?

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for people who have helped our faith grow. Give us the vision and gifts to enable others to come to faith and to flourish in their Christian life. Amen.

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 16, 2011

FOR THOSE IN NEED OF THE LORD'S HEALING

Beverly Silletto: recovering from a procedure on her eye

FOR THOSE IN NEED OF THE LORD'S COMFORT AND STRENGTH.

Family of Taylor Parson, one of our 1st graders, whose father died suddenly and was given a Christian burial on Wed.

Shout for joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious. Say to God, How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name. - Psalm 66:1-4

All For Jesus
Paul Nickel
Director of Christian Education
Our Savior Lutheran Church