Spare a thought for the parents (Ch 2)

Luke Chapter 2 

INTRODUCTION: A rich Chapter indeed. (i) v1-20 - Those wonderful and familiar verses about the birth of Jesus and the shepherds in the fields. “A saviour has been born” v11. (ii) v21-38 - Simeon and Anna those Godly seniors in the temple. Declaring Jesus as “A light for the gentiles” v32 and speaking of him to all who were looking for redemption v38. (iii) v39-52 – As this child who was born grows up strong, wise and full of grace v40.  Even the teachers were amazed at his understanding v47 and he grew in favour with God v52

REFLECTION: Behind all the events of this passage I am struck by the earthly parents of Jesus. How often did they wonder how it would all turn out? That difficult journey of some 70 miles with Mary expecting a baby who was then born in a manger (v4,7). Mary pondering all that happened in her heart (v19). Their humble obedience in naming the child and presenting him at the temple (v21-23, 39). Their faithfulness in family worship in particular that journey each year to Jerusalem (v41). How must they have felt when they lost Jesus (v45) and when they did not understand him (v50). In all the challenges of parenting Mary “treasured all these things in her heart” (v51). While there is much we don’t know about those years and how it was for Mary and Joseph we see that steady faithfulness and heartfelt love for Jesus and trust in God that all of us who are parents (or grandparents) need.

PRAYER: Lord thank you for those of the next generations that you have brought into our lives. We pray for those you have given us responsibility for and the opportunity to influence. In those times when the journey is hard, strengthen us to keep going. Help us to be an example of faithfulness to them in our worship and obedience. In those moments when we feel they are lost and we do not understand them, teach us how to keep them in our hearts. Lord work in our hearts to build that steady faithfulness and heartfelt love so we might be used by you in the lives of others. In Jesus Name we pray AMEN