For this reason, I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.
2 Tim 1:6-7
“Teaching my kids the faith is your job Father.” I’ve heard this phrase on a few occasions, I’ve witnessed it lived out frequently. Spiritual generativity is a thing. Timothy and Titus, two Bishops of the early church, are remembered by us their spiritual descendants today. Paul refers to both of them as children when writing them.
I for one am grateful that Paul took an active role in the spiritual upbringing of these two men. I’m grateful that he invested the time and energy to form them and teach them how to live in the Spirit which is a relationship with the Father in Christ Jesus. Should that spiritual generativity not happen, life leaves the church. Paul didn’t say “God will take care of it.” Paul became the vessel of faith. As Christians, we are called to do the same. As parents, friends, peers, priests, sisters, or siblings we are called to find ways to impart the flame of faith.
How might I demonstrate the importance of faithfulness to those lives entrusted to me?
Jesus, I give you permission to make me a vessel of faith to others.
Today’s Reflection is by:
Fr. Chuck Dornquast
Did you know…
Fr. Chuck Dornquast is a son of St. Joseph Parish in Zephyrhills. After graduating from Zephyrhills High School he entered the seminary where he would spend the next 9 years. While in seminary he spent time at many of our diocesan parishes and discovered more and more the heart of Christ the High Priest within him. After ordination, he spent his first 4 years of priesthood as the associate pastor of St. Lawrence in Tampa. He currently serves the Diocese of St. Petersburg as the Director of Vocations.
