Anchor Devotional

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Celebrate the Growth

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Luke 2:52

My great-grandson is a toddler, and it is a delight to watch each new phase of his growth. Recently, he started attending preschool, and his teachers were amazed that he readily says and signs “please” and “thank you.”

Now think about the brief account of Jesus’ childhood which is recorded in the book of Luke. Young Jesus went through all the normal stages of child development—like my great-grandson! Mary and Joseph’s trip to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration gave the boy an opportunity to go to the temple there and amaze all who heard Him (see v. 47). This is the only story of Jesus’ growing up that we have. This early interaction with the teachers of the law shows Jesus was no “typical kid.” He was the very Son of God! His parents’ reaction to His brief disappearance, however (v. 48), was as typical as ever!

Jesus grew physically and mentally. His heavenly Father was pleased with Him. Probably His earthly father was, too. People liked Him. When we grow in Christ through the nourishment of God’s Word, the Holy Spirit matures our faith.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS
Luke 2:41-52

INSIGHT
“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever!” (2 Peter 3:18)

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Ecclesiastes 3-4
Psalm 64
John 4

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