So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. (Luke 2:39, 40, NKJV).
Dear God, as we begin to get back to our normal everyday chores, like Jesus, please help us to “[grow] and [become] strong” with the knowledge we have gained as we “pondered” the different aspects of the life of Your Son and our Savior during this holiday season. For Christ’s sake. Amen.
After special holidays like Christmas it is not always easy to return to our own corner of the world (paraphrasing the first part of our Scripture for today). That is because we are usually surrounded by family and special friends that we don’t always see and spend time with. If we looked forward to the day just for the good food, good gifts, and good company, when the season has passed we will find ourselves still hungering, disappointed, and oftentimes, lonely.
However, if we enter the season determined to get something special out of it, and conscientiously make plans to accomplish it, we will not be disappointed. Having a plan always enhances the possibility of success; which in turn increases our joy and multiplies the benefits that we receive. The best plan to follow is the plan Heaven has for our lives.
For Mary and Joseph having a plan was crucial. Theirs was a special situation. An unexpected pregnancy, a census just when the baby is due, and a long and weary travel. But God had planned for them and they were wise and willing in cooperating with their Heavenly Parent in carrying out the plan.
Mary responded positively to Heaven’s Plan to become the mother of the Savior.
They both were obedient to the civil authorities and went up to participate in the census.
They humbled themselves and were content to allow the “Holy One”, the “Son of God” to be born in a stable.
They remained in Bethlehem until everything had been accomplished according to “the law of the Lord” (The Plan).
They obediently returned to their own city “Nazareth” of Galilee.
The result: “And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.”
This can be our experience as well – if by God’s grace, we are willing to cooperate with Heaven’s Plan! May we be willing and wise to do so!