Passing the Torch.

 

Passing the Torch.

Older couple passing a torch to the next generation. Harry Anderson painting.

What does a torch symbolize in the Bible?.

Psalms 119:105. The light of a torch radiates outward and dissipates darkness. This symbol of the Olympic Games and the purpose of them can be a reminder to the world of its need to reach outward in further effort to advance humanity's goals.

What does the torch represent?.

The torch is a symbol of enlightenment. The Statue of Liberty's torch lights the way to freedom showing us the path to Liberty. Even the Statue's official name represents her most important symbol "Liberty Enlightening the World"

What does a torch mean?.

The torch is a common emblem of both enlightenment and hope. ... Crossed reversed torches were signs of mourning that appear on Greek and Roman funerary monuments—a torch pointed downwards symbolizes death, while a torch held up symbolizes life, truth and the regenerative power of flame.

Passing the Torch.

“We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation

about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders” (Psalm 78:4).

When the word torch comes to mind, I am immediately drawn to the Olympic Games; especially since the next winter games are right around the corner. If you can, try to visualize the bearers of the modern torch, as they pass it from one runner to the next in a relay format, until it finally arrives at the host site of the Olympic Games. I recently read an interesting article on the history of Olympic Torch relay. The article stated, “The Olympic flame symbolizes the light of spirit, knowledge, and life. The passing of the flame from one person to another in stages (the Torch Relay), symbolizes the handing down of this figurative fire from generation to generation.”

If is my belief that the Apostle Paul had this idea in mind when he encouraged his young protégé Timothy. “For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands” (2 Timothy 1:6 NIV). I love the imagery this passage conveys; spiritual impartation, passion, passing the torch, a leader in one generation cheering on a torchbearer in the next generation. Listen to the words of Matthew 5:14-16, as they are interpreted by Eugene Peterson in the Message.

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”

The call to be a torchbearer is a worthy vocation; one that every Christ follower should give serious attention to as we prayerfully value all generations. The first seven verses of Psalm 78 flow with three movements as it relates to past, present, and future generations.

The glorious deeds of the Lord – Healing, forgiveness, redemption and blessing (Psalms 103:1-5).

God’s power – Salvation, healing and Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 1:18; Luke 5:15; Romans 15:13).

God’s mighty wonders – Signs and wonders, God’s greatness (Daniel 4:2-13).

Today, we honor all present-day torchbearers who are faithfully telling God’s story and imparting truth to the next generation.

Hope in God – “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life” (John 10:10, NLT)..

Never forget His miracles – “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me” (Psalm 103:2, NLT)..

Obey His commands – “If you love me, obey my commandments” (John 14:15, NLT).