In our study this morning we considered the passage from Luke 2 where Mary and Joseph returned to Jerusalem in search of Jesus. We are told that the family went there each year to celebrate the Passover. As far as we know, this was the first (and only) time that Jesus was left behind. Before we judge the parents too harshly, we ought to consider the possibility that Jesus had traveled home in the company of family members before. Hadn’t he always returned home safe and sound? If you’ve ever lost track of your child for five minutes, you can only begin to imagine the concern that gripped the hearts of his parents after not finding him for at least three days. “Where did he sleep?” “Was he hurt, hungry, cold or frightened? These were just some of the questions that plagued their troubled minds.
Although greatly relieved when they found him in the Temple among the Elders, Mary’s motherly embrace was accompanied by a sharp rebuke. “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have sought you sorrowing!” However, the boy Jesus gently turned the rebuke back on them: “How is it that you sought me? Didn’t you know that I must be about my Father’s business?” (also rendered, “I must be in my Father’s House). In other words, “Have you already lost sight of who I am and why I’ve come?” Had the natural life Jesus led among them for the first twelve years caused them to lose sight of the high and holy calling that would surely be fulfilled in God’s time?
Oh, the mystery of the Incarnation! God so perfectly veiled in human flesh, so imperceptibly blending in among his siblings and peers. This was a wakeup call for
them… and for us. Just because he appears ordinary, he’s not. Even though he looks and acts like one of us, he’s so much more. This story serves as a warning to those of us who have become so familiar with holy things that we no longer see or look for the wonder and beauty in them. Statements like, “I’ve heard that Bible story a hundred times,” or “It’s just another Sunday Morning Service,” are sure indications that we have lost sight of the power and glory of God’s Holy Spirit and Word and have limited their potential to our natural expectations.
How do we free ourselves from such mundane Christian living?
- By believing that God has so much more for us than we are presently
experiencing.
- By believing that He has something to reveal to us each and every day,
and asking Him to open our eyes and ears to receive it.
- And by serving Him in faith knowing that He rewards obedience and fills
the hungry with good things.
Just because life seems ordinary at times doesn’t mean it is… not for the child of God. Always keep in mind that behind the ordinary is a supernatural, wonder- working God and He’s doing more for you than you could ever imagine simply because you are believing Him to. Be patient, He is working out His plan and purpose according to His timetable, not yours. Be intentional when approaching the things of God. The next time Jesus would show forth His glory would be eighteen years later at a wedding in Cana. Mary would be ready this time.
