FAMILY TREE

“For this reason, I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God bestowed when my hands were laid on you.” –2 Timothy 1:6

How well do you know your Catholic ancestry? Do you realize Timothy and Titus were ordained bishops? (see 2 Tm 1:6) By the laying on of hands, the Apostle Paul commissioned them for evangelistic work. “As for Titus, he is my companion and fellow worker in your behalf” (2 Cor 8:23). This illustrates New Testament-era apostolic succession.

Paul also assigned a precise mission. “My purpose in leaving you in Crete was that you might accomplish what had been left undone, especially the appointment of presbyters in every town” (Ti 1:5). We see the hierarchy at work in the early Church.

Where do we twenty-first century Catholics fit into this lineage? Is it possible your diocesan bishop is a spiritual descendant of St. Timothy or St. Titus? Remember, bishops can only be ordained by bishops through the laying on of hands. This is an unbroken chain since apostolic times. Ponder the amazing possibilities of your Catholic family tree!

In today’s Gospel, Jesus at first glance appears callous toward His family (see Mk 3:32-33). Within context, a deeper truth becomes apparent. Our Lord’s intent is not insolence toward the Blessed Mother. Rather, he takes advantage of a teaching moment. “Whoever does the will of God is brother and sister and mother to Me” (Mk 3:35). Jesus called Paul; Paul ordained Timothy and Titus; we are adopted into the family. In obedience to your bishop, how will you serve your brothers and sisters in Christ?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, strengthen me to serve.
PROMISE: “The Spirit God has given us is no cowardly spirit, but rather one that makes us strong, loving, and wise.” ––2 Tm 1:7
PRAISE: “This is why I have sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful son in the Lord. He will remind you of my ways in Christ, just as I teach them in all the churches” (1 Cor 4:17).