Read: 1 Timothy 4:12
We like to equate age with wisdom. However, sometimes I’m living proof that this isn’t always true. We’ve all seen adults behave in cringe-worthy ways. Age isn’t a barrier to swearing, stealing, or unfaithfulness. And being young isn’t a barrier to clean speech, honesty, or purity. Sometimes, by being just who they are, younger people send a powerful message to adults.
The apostle Paul knew that many adult believers didn’t act the way they should and reminded young Timothy to stand firm and set an example for them. “Don’t let them get to you, kid. I’ve trained you well,” he advised his protégé in this letter.
To his credit, Timothy never hesitated to complete the tasks set before him. He took on the mantle of a church leader and never flinched.
Years later, St. Benedict’s rules for the Benedictine Order refer to valuing younger people. Chapter 3 gives advice on Calling the Brethren for Council:
“Whenever any important business has to be done in the monastery,
let the Abbot call together the whole community and state the matter to be acted upon.
Then, having heard the brethren’s advice, let him turn the matter over in his own mind and do what he shall judge to be most expedient. The reason we have said that all should be called for counsel is that the Lord often reveals to the younger what is best.” (My emphasis)
Like adding spices to a stew, we need variety to make it tasty. Mix older experience with youthful curiosity, patience grown from age with eagerness of youth, kindness from wisdom with youthful determination, and we’ve got something. The Body of Christ is a mixture of all nations and ages, each bringing unique Holy Spirit blessings.
Father God, thank you for every member of Christ’s kingdom on earth, the young no less than the older. You gave us tasks to last a lifetime here on earth and in Your heaven. Thank You for such blessings and may we always treasure each other.
