READING: Matthew 2, Luke 2:39-52
TEXTS AND APPLICATION: Jesus has always been amazing, even as a child. He grew like other boys did, yet He clearly was more than others:
Luke 2:40 The boy grew up and became strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was on Him.
Matt. 2:11 Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary His mother, and falling to their knees, they [the magi] worshiped Him.
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.
Jesus was the boy King whom the prophet announced (Matt. 2:6), the wise men worshiped (Matt. 2:11), and Herod feared (Matt. 2:16). At the age of 12, He had knowledge that no others had — so much so that even the religious leaders of His day were astounded at His wisdom (Luke 2:46-47). Moreover, He knew at that age that He had a unique relationship to the Father; He knew He was the Father’s Son who had a mission to fulfill: “Didn’t you know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49b).
Jesus was, indeed, both fully human and fully God. He grew like others, but others worshiped Him. He who knows our life is worthy of the same response from us.
ACTION STEPS: To worship and love Jesus is to obey Him. Choose a particular area of weakness in your life today, and choose to obey Him without compromise. He deserves that kind of obedience.
PRAYER: “Lord, I don’t want to fail You today. I know Your Son is worthy. Help me to worship Him through my obedience.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Matthew 3, Mark 1, Luke 3