How can we relate to such a marvelous model for living as Jesus? In his humanity we are provided the example of how life lived in the flesh can still be pleasing to God. Though we are not given a lot of information regarding our Lord’s early years, what is recorded is significant enough to note.
At the age of twelve we find Jesus going to Jerusalem with his earthly parents at the time of the Passover. (Luke 2:41-42) When it was time to return home, Jesus ended up being left behind sitting in the temple with some of the teachers who were amazed at his understanding as He listened and asked questions. (Luke 2:43-47) In association with those events, Luke provided the following short synopsis of our Lord’s beginning of those teen years.
We read. . .
“(49) And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (50) And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. (51) And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart. (52) And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.” (Luke 2:49-52 ESV)
Even though Jesus came into this realm as God with us (Matthew 1:23) and to be Savior and Lord (Luke 2:11), He still had a role within the parameters of a family unit. (Matthew 13:55-56) As a youth we see Jesus maintained a good focus and thus exemplified an obedient child being submissive to His earthly parents and the accepting of spiritual instruction and practice. Day by day and year by year His growth was marked by an increase in all the areas where it ought to take place: the intellectual, physical, spiritual and social development that brings one to maturity and usefulness in life.
May we always seek to maintain the good focus that marked not only the youthful development of our Lord, but also His fulfillment of the father’s plan through Him. In this way we will likewise be the best help to others (within the parameters of our immediate family, church family, community, and world) and bring the greatest glory and honor to God.
Have a great day MATURING LIKE THE MASTER!
Carl
