SAINTS TIMOTHY AND TITUS, BISHOPS (MEMORIAL)

God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. 

If you’re married or in a serious dating relationship, think back to how you knew that person was “the one.” Perhaps you had to overcome some initial fears. What were you going to say? How would they respond? Over time, your love and commitment toward this person grew much stronger than your fear.

Sts. Timothy and Titus, whose feasts we celebrate today, probably had to face fear as well. Imagine the difficulties Timothy encountered setting up churches in Greece (Acts 16:1–17:14). And for his part, Titus had to deliver a rebuke to the Corinthians and address internal divisions in the church at Crete (2 Corinthians 7:6, 13-14; Titus 1:4-5). Both men could have let fear get in their way—and if they had, we might not be reading this passage today. But it’s apparent that the Holy Spirit helped them overcome their fear.

Most of us encounter some hesitation when it comes to sharing our faith. We can think of many reasons not to evangelize: “I don’t know what to say.” “They’re not going to be interested in my story.” “I will look foolish.”

If you’re afraid to speak about your faith, remember who lives inside you—the same Holy Spirit who lived in Timothy and Titus! The Spirit of “power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). Specifically, the power that he gives us is love. It’s the love between God the Father and his Son, Jesus. It’s the love God has for each of us—and it’s stronger than any natural human love we have, even for those dearest to us. It’s also stronger than our fears.

Can you think of just one person who needs a touch from the Lord in their life? Maybe Jesus is prompting you to speak to that person. Ask the Spirit to fill you with love and the courage to reach out to them. The next time you see them, don’t let fear get the upper hand. You don’t have to “convert” them. Just love them and share something about what God has done for you—the Lord will do the rest.

“Holy Spirit, fill me with zeal and with love for your people.”

Psalm 96:1-3, 7-8, 10
Mark 3:31-35
2 Timothy 1:1-8

WORD AMONG US