December 31 – “When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.”

Read: Luke 2:39-40

God’s great work is hidden within the normal routine of life. If this was true of Jesus it is certainly true of us. There are ancient fairy-tale-like stories of what Jesus was like as a boy. In make-believe fashion they describe a precocious character who resorted to magic whenever it struck his fancy. Those who wrote and believed such stories are like Christians today who fantasize, sensationalize and spiritualize every aspect of life. They live in a spiritual disney-land of their own making. God lives and works in the real world. We should not forget that Jesus grew up in Nazareth.

Christian service makes sense. Real faith in God does not need promotional gimmicks or publicity. Authentic Christianity understands humble service, inner strength, quiet resolve, disciplined growth and the sacrifice of praise. Joy characterizes the life of the Christian who does not live from hype to hype but from grace to grace. It is in the routine of life with all of its tensions and tedium that we witness to the glorious grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, give us patience and endurance to serve You faithfully in our Nazareth. Help us to grow and become strong in You and in Your love. We want to be filled with Your wisdom. May Your grace be upon us. Amen.

2 thoughts on “December 31 – “When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.””

  1. Hey Jim. Thanks for the advent devotions this month. Today’s gives a hint of realness and authenticity.Here are some nuggets that your words provoked in me. Faithfulness when all seems futile. Worshiping when it doesn’t make sence. Working without all the hype of being noticed. And to quote pastor Bob, watering our grass when it looks greener on the other side! 😀 Thanks brother for your encouragment.

  2. Jim- thx for the Advent Devos! As others, I’ve enjoyed them immensely! What a blessing you are to the CU Pastors and CU membership in general! This is a challenge to say and live, but may 2011 find us living even more dangerously for Him than before! Praise be to God for the things he has done, is doing and will do!

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