Growth and early life of Jesus —Luke 2:39-40
Jesus’ first Passover in Jerusalem —Luke 2:41-50
Jesus’ growth to adulthood —Luke 2:51-52
Thoughts about serving others
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Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.
Joseph and Mary were extraordinary, yet rather ordinary parents, keeping the Law of the Lord first, they raise Jesus as a child in humble settings. The child grew and became strong because they didn’t keep him confined and over-protected. I wonder if the child-Jesus ever cut his finger or skinned his knee, just how human was he? We know he was obedient to his earthly parents (Luke 2:51), but he must have driven them insane when he stayed behind in Jerusalem! Three days they looked for him (Luke 2:46) and there he was in the temple courts.
Jesus listened to the teachers and asked them questions, the Jewish way of conversation, then provided answers that very likely stunned them. Forgive me for the diversion, but this makes me think of Star Wars, little Anakin Skywalker, able to do things beyond their understanding. George Lucas could have scripted this to mirror the child-Jesus, but he had other plans for the boy in his movies.
There are few times these days when we see a 12-year old acting with such demeanor and grace, but we should be mindful of how quick we are to judge. Jesus will not reappear as a 12-year old again, but this passage reminds me we should mentor our children and encourage them to engage in conversations about their faith. Youth pastors will quote statistics that most Christians come to Christ at an early age…we mustn’t forget our youth!
The story in Luke is about to quickly change so I want to linger here for a moment, reflect on the child growing up as a respectable young man, honoring God by participating in the annual festivals. Jesus was a good and faithful child, aware of the stress he must have caused his earthly parents. I imagine it was Jesus who said, “there, there, it’ll be alright!” And he meant it!
Lord, I love our children. The task of being a parent is challenging at times, so often I feel unworthy and ill-equipped to do and say the right thing at the right time. As we celebrate Mother’s Day today, may Zoe feel honored for her role as mom in our family, as an amazing woman of God that she is. I can see her finding the child-Jesus in the temple and having a chat with him. May we learn from this interaction and grow as parents on earth. Time is fleeting. Teach us Lord!