A Legacy of Faith: From Generation to Generation

"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)

Faith is a powerful legacy that can influence generations and even change nations. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul highlights Timothy’s faith, passed down from his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This verse reminds us of the amazing impact a godly heritage can have on our lives and those who come after us.

For me, this truth is very personal. My journey of faith began in an Arizona trailer park, where my mother, newly divorced and very pregnant, was raising my sister and me. One evening, a couple knocked on our door, choosing to share the love of Jesus instead of enjoying a quiet night at home. Little did they know that behind that door was a little girl who would one day travel the world, sharing the Good News of Jesus. That simple act of faithfulness set off a chain reaction that transformed our lives and countless others.

My mother became very involved in church, and as my Sunday school teacher, she taught me about this wonderful Jesus she was just beginning to know and brought to life the exciting adventures of real-life missionaries. It wasn’t long before she began calling me her "little missionary." Now, many years later, it’s no surprise that I have the privilege of preaching the Good News around the world, raising my own children in this exciting faith that she brought alive in me.

Recently, we welcomed our first granddaughter, Adaline, born to our son Jonathan and his wife Michelle. As I see this new generation begin their journey of faith, I am filled with gratitude for God’s continued faithfulness. The memories of His care for my single mother and me, and later for my own children, remind me that He will be faithful to Adaline in even greater ways.

Looking back, I see how a single act of obedience rippled through generations, creating a growing legacy of faith. My heart overflows with thankfulness for this exciting and living faith passed down to me and the opportunity to pass it on to my children and now my grandchildren. As I hold Adaline, I am reminded of Paul’s words to Timothy. Just as the faith of Lois and Eunice lived on in Timothy, the faith that took root in my mother now lives on in me, my children, and Adaline—a living testament to God’s faithfulness.

To parents and grandparents, remember that the seeds of faith you plant today can bear fruit for generations. Whether you come from a long line of believers or are the first in your family to follow Christ, your faith can have a lasting impact.

• This week, reflect on the legacy of faith in your family. If you have stories of faith from parents, grandparents, or other family members, take time to share them.
• Create a "Faith Tree" on paper, with each branch representing a person who has influenced your faith. Write their names and stories on the branches and talk about how their lives have inspired you.
• If you’re starting a new legacy, discuss how you can establish a foundation of faith for future generations.

Whether you are continuing a family tradition of faith or beginning a new one, know that your life of faith can have a lasting impact. Let’s encourage each other to live out our faith authentically and inspire those around us to do the same.