A few things known about Timothy – from the letters written to him by the apostle Paul – are that he had a weak stomach and many ailments (I Timothy 5:23) and that he apparently suffered from fearfulness (II Timothy 1:7). Could it be that Timothy’s family history contributed to these conditions? It’s impossible to know for sure, but as the product of a mixed marriage, Timothy almost certainly would have faced ostracism and discrimination. His Jewish mother was wed to a Greek man, a prohibited marriage under Jewish law. Then she and Timothy became Christians: another strike against them.

Pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

I Timothy 2:3-4

Plenty of people would have deemed Timothy as disqualified for service, but Paul had no interest in majoring on such minors. He equipped Timothy for ministry and encouraged him to “fight the good fight of faith.” (I Timothy 6:12) Perhaps Timothy, more than most others, appreciated that Jesus came so that “all people” might be saved.

Human history is filled with one sad tale of prejudice after another. As you pray for America today, ask God to help you look beyond those in your own neighborhood, church or political party, and give you His compassion for all people.

Recommended Reading: II Peter 3:4-9