HOST: Michael Whitworth
Today’s Reading: Luke 2:36-40
"And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him."
“The Child grew”—what an amazing statement! Not because Jesus grew, for that is the normal process of human development. What is amazing is the fact that God sent His only Son to this world to take on flesh, and that he was born as all humanity is born. He came into the world as a weak and helpless baby to be cared for by Joseph and Mary. He had to be fed, bathed, clothed, and taught. He experienced human life from its earliest moments, and thus understands us with a sympathy that comes only from experience. When the Hebrews writer says that He is a High Priest who can “sympathize with our weaknesses” (4:15), it is true because He experienced every facet of humanity. It is a plan that could only be conceived in the mind of an all-knowing and loving God. What an amazing God and wonderful Savior we have!
How is it comforting to know that Jesus experienced human life?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!
