And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
Luke 2:52 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, as I read these words this morning my mind immediately went to 1 Samuel 2:26, which declares after Samuel was dedicated to Your service in the temple, “…the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the LORD and also with man.” He first ministered to You (1 Samuel 2:11). He then grew before You (1 Samuel 2:21). And then he grew in stature and favor with You and all who watched his development.
Though I don’t know whether this statement by Luke was intended to take his readers to this place, I know that I cannot help but see the connection between You and the prophet/priest/leader of Israel. From childhood You both were set apart to perform the will of the Father. You both declared the good news of God’s deliverance for His people. You both stood in the gap between the Father and His sinful people. You both were rejected by those whom you were sent to serve. And by this rejection, they received a king. In Samuel’s case, an insecure Saul until David, a man after Your own heart. In Your case, Your manifestation as our King of kings and Lord of lords, the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world! Glory to Your Name!
During this Christmas season, my heart revels in Your unfolding grace story. As my mind connects the dots from redemption past, to present, to future, I glory in Your divine plan and its brilliant execution. Frankly it blows my mind that You would come in a common way by uncommon means, and that You would grow amongst us as any child would, and yet, would be Immanuel! And You have along the way given us glimmers of how exceptional Your life was here on earth, and what we can expect upon Your imminent return! Yes, like Samuel You were special but so much more! And today I find comfort and security in the “like Samuel” and joy and hope in the “so much more!” Thank You for being, as Scripture declares, in all ways like me yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15)! Thank You for coming in the flesh, growing up like me, and showing the way to a life pleasing to You. Hallelujah!