More Advent Thoughts

In every child's life there comes a time when they think they are ready to take on the world. Jesus seems to have tried it when He was 12 years old. He thought He was ready. He certainly possessed great wisdom for His age. And He Knew He was called to do what God wanted to accomplish through Him.

But it wasn't time. God's timing is perfect. If Jesus had begun His ministry that time He spent in the Temple among the teachers of the Law, things would have played out much differently. I imagine that there would not have been the same disciples following Him. His message would be filtered down through the Teachers, not a pure word given to those who would hear with their hearts and let it change them. Oh, His message would be the same but in the hands of men who thought they knew better, it would change.

So, God gave Jesus wise parents who sought Him, found Him, and directed Him back home to wait for the right time. Jesus again, showed humility and obedience in returning to Nazareth with Joseph and Mary. His life was lived to show us how to live. Yes, we each have a calling from God, but we must be prepared to complete that calling as God wants it to be completed. We must be willing to be patient and wait for the right time to step into our purpose. Jesus submitted to God by submitting to His parents.

Jesus, You have been an example for me to follow. You called us all to follow You and even when You say "Wait" that is part of the following. So many times I am impatient. I step out ahead of Your plan. Forgive me. Teach me to use my time wisely. Give me boldness when it is time to move forward. I give my days into Your hands.