Luke 2:22-40
In these scriptures we see angels from the Lord announcing the arrival of the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Angels appeared to Zacharias, Mary, and to shepherds. Here we see the proclamation of the Son of God was given to two prophets who were in the temple when Joseph and Mary brought the child there to present him to the Lord.
The first prophet was Simeon. He was glad to see the child because it meant his earthly journey was almost over and he was ready to be with the Lord in heaven. He also blessed Mary and Joseph and had a personal word of prophecy for Mary that a sword would pierce her heart. No doubt this word was for when the Lord Jesus died upon the cross and Mary was there and saw him executed.
The other prophet was Anna. She was a godly woman who had served God in fasting and praying for many years since her husband died. She also gave thanks to the Lord and acknowledged that this child was the promised Messiah of God.
Once Joseph and Mary completed all the requirements of the law regarding a newborn son they returned to Nazareth and the Lord Jesus grew up, strong in spirit, and the grace of God was upon him. The scripture describes Jesus as being full of wisdom.
This was a good example of how God used believers to confirm a word of God. It shows us how the church can work together to encourage one another and to build up the faith of one another. It also shows us that the Lord reveals specific truths to individuals and those individuals then have a responsibility to share with others.
Every Christian should share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Christ died for our sins, he was buried, and he rose again on the third day. Let us encourage one another, share the gospel, and build up the faith of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Luke 2:41-52
Mary and Joseph went up every year to the feast of the Passover at Jerusalem. When Jesus was twelve years old he went with them to Jerusalem. When the feast was over they went back home but Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem at the temple. They did not realize that Jesus was missing for an entire day! Finally they found him after three days!
The Lord Jesus amazed the people who were in the temple with his questions. He listened to them and asked questions. Everyone who listened to him were amazed at his understanding and answers.
Understandably Mary and Joseph were upset with Jesus when they found him. The Lord Jesus replied, "Didn't you know I had to be about my father's business?" Mary and Joseph did not understand his answer, which was a question.
The Lord Jesus went with them down to Nazareth and was subject to them. Mary remembered all of these events in the life of Jesus and pondered them in her heart.
The Lord Jesus continued to grow in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.
I don't think this account should be interpreted as Jesus being rebellious towards his parents. I don't think his attitude was one of rebellion. However, as in this example, we see in the life of Jesus many time people did not understand his purpose, his mission, and why he did what he did. Even his own disciples tried to stop him from going to the cross at Calvary. Jesus was not turned aside from this goal, and that was to complete his Father's will.
How can we apply this to our life? Do we have this single minded goal and purpose? Is our goal in life to please God? Is our goal in life complete obedience to Gods' will for our life?
Christ died for our sins, he was buried, and he rose again on the third day, according to the scriptures. Everyone who calls upon the name of Jesus is saved. Cry out to God most high, unto God who performs all things for us.
