Rekindle

2 Timothy 1:6 (CEB) · Passing the Flame

“Because of this, I’m reminding you to revive God’s gift that is in you through the laying on of my hands.” — 2 Timothy 1:6 (CEB)

“Revive God’s gift that is in you.” The older translations use the word “rekindle.” The Greek word Paul chooses carries the image of fanning a fire back to flame when only embers remain.

The claim underneath the instruction is striking: the flame is already there. Timothy does not need to find it, earn it, or manufacture it. The gift has been given. What Timothy needs to do is breathe on it.

Embers are fragile. Leave a fire alone long enough and the glow slips below the ash. Stir the ash, add air, and the flame returns. The fuel was always there.

What happens to our faith between Sundays often looks like this. No crisis. No rebellion. Just quiet, and underneath the quiet, a gift still burning, waiting for attention.

What part of your faith needs air this week more than answers?

Holy Spirit, breathe on the embers we’ve let grow cold. Revive the gifts you placed in us before we even knew to ask for them. Amen.