“51 Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people.” Luke 2.51-52
It is challenging to envision Jesus as anything other than an infant or a man. Imagining Jesus as a toddler or a teenager is truly mind-blowing. What kind of child was He? Serious yet with a sense of humor? Wiser than everyone else in the room? Focused on loving God and others? He likely had fun and enjoyed life, yet He remained without sin. It’s difficult to picture Jesus as anything but a baby in the manger or a grown man.
Scripture offers only brief snapshots of Jesus’ early years. We see Him in the manger, then in the Temple being consecrated, and later, at age twelve, staying behind in Jerusalem during Passover (Luke 2:41-50). From His parents’ perspective, He was “evading” them, but Jesus was exactly where He believed He needed to be—about His Father’s business. Eventually, Mary and Joseph found Him, and He returned home with them. Was Jesus lost? They certainly thought so!
The Scripture tells us that He went down to Nazareth—not the high calling of “going up” to Jerusalem—and was obedient to His parents (Luke 2:51). Imagine God incarnate learning obedience, submission, and humility. Though He was divine, Jesus learned to align His will with that of His trusted earthly parents. And Jesus grew.
My reflection today is not solely on Jesus’ physical growth—from infant to pre-teen to man. Jesus progressed through each phase of life while remaining faithful to God’s calling. As we journey through life, we, too, grow in many ways—physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. Like Jesus, we should grow in our love for God and our service to Him.
It’s a beautiful thing to witness a man or woman of God who fears the Lord and lives according to His purpose. Such maturity is nothing short of remarkable, reflecting the fulfillment of God’s promise: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).
How are you growing in grace? How are you maturing in life? I am no longer the young man I once was. I am progressing through life, seeking to live for the Lord as He has ordained and promised. I am living in the blessings of the King. Are you?
O Lord God, life is not always easy. On the contrary, it is a temporary test of our obedience—a moment in time to seek Your Word, live by Your Spirit, and walk in Your ways. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill us with Your love and purpose. Help us understand the reason for our being and to serve You all our days. For You are good, and Your love endures forever. Amen.