December 29

Introduction

Luke 2:39–52: After completing everything required by the Law, Mary and Joseph return to Nazareth with Jesus. The chapter concludes with the account of Jesus, at age 12, debating with the Jewish teachers in the Temple in Jerusalem.

Today’s Key Verse: Luke 2:52

Jesus grew both in body and in wisdom, gaining favor with God and people.

Reflect

Reread verses 41–52. Why did Jesus stay behind in Jerusalem? What did the teachers think of him? Why were his parents astonished when they found him? What did they say (verse 48)? What was Jesus’s response (verse 49)? Verses 40 and 52 speak of Jesus’s wisdom. As stated in Proverbs 9:10, “To be wise you must first have reverence for the LORD. If you know the Holy One, you have understanding.” In what way does your daily encounter with Scripture fill you with wisdom?

Pray

Lord God, just as your beloved Son Jesus grew in body and wisdom, teach me your ways and guide me in my faith journey so that I continue to gain wisdom and grow in the knowledge of you. Daily will I praise and revere you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Revelation 21:1–27: John has a vision of a new heaven and a new earth.