Scripture Union Daily Guide 28 December 2021
Topic: The Temple, The Father’s House
Opening Prayer: Oh Lord, grant me divine guidance as I read and meditate on your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: Luke 2:39-52
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Jesus and His earthly family lived in His mother’s hometown of Nazareth, hence He was known as ‘Jesus of Nazareth’ (v.39; cf. Matthew 21:11; Luke 24:19). From vs.40–42 and 51–52, what can we learn about the childhood of Jesus? Notice the dimensions of Jesus’ development in vs. 40 & 52 and compare with that of the child Samuel (1 Sam. 2: 26). Joseph and Mary had taken seriously the command to train our children even though they knew Jesus was the special Son of God. So, they introduced Him to their custom of worshipping God at the Temple in Jerusalem (v.43).
Do you as a parent or guardian, by your word and action, help your children/ward develop the right attitude towards the things of God? Notice the costly assumption of Joseph and Mary and what they paid for it (vs. 43-46a). Imagine the state of Joseph and Mary’s minds when, for three days, they unsuccessfully searched for Jesus.
This is reflected in Mary’s question in v.48b. Can you identify with their experience? They eventually found Jesus in the Temple. Notice what He was doing. Read vs.33 &48 again and note the phrases, “the child’s father” and “your father” referring to Joseph, but Jesus is actually the Son of God (v.49; Luke 1:35). Albeit awareness of His special relationship with God did not disturb His relationship with His earthly parents and other people (vs.51-52).
Practice/Word Application
• So: Seek for Jesus and you will find him.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Dear Lord, help Christian parents to be role models for their children and in their communities
• Pray for yourself, not to take the grace of God in vain
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Matthew 5:8; Zech. 5-8; Luke 23:1-25
