When I Grow Up...

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature 

and in favor with God and all the people.

Luke 2:52 

 

 

Were you ever asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up"?  I was asked that by many people throughout my childhood.  There were even some people (my Bride) who wonder if I will ever truly grow up.  Then there were those who would always tell you to "act your age."  And there were those who would tell you, usually in exasperated tones "Just Grow Up Already".

But if you look at today's verse, you will see that Jesus already knew what His life's journey was going to entail because "Jesus grew in WISDOM and in stature and in favor and all the people."  Jesus didn't just grow up...Jesus GREW COMPLETELY! 

 How many of us can honestly say we have grown in WISDOM?  And, NO being a sarcastic smart aleck doesn't count.  Wisdom includes accepting that others will see thing differently than you.  Wisdom means you understand that the right thing to do IS the right thing to do (even if it's not popular).  Wisdom doesn't mean you can't have fun, but wisdom teaches us when to have fun and when to be serious.  Wisdom includes learning that childish tantrums do not solve problems, they create problems.

Jesus also grew in STATURE.  He grew up physically.  As a trained carpenter, He knew about hard work.  He needed to learn the skills to make all the things He built would be sturdy and of good quality.

Jesus also grew in FAVOR WITH GOD!  Yes, Jesus is God's Son, but that didn't mean He didn't have the choice to rebel.  He could have very well made the choice to go His own way and done His own thing.  After all, Satan was once one of God's most High Angels until he chose to go his own way.  But He chose to use the Wisdom He had learned to do what was right.

Jesus also grew in FAVOR WITH ALL THE PEOPLE!  Jesus was well liked.  He was respected.  Why? Most likely because He was respectful and courteous, sincere and likable.  I've met some people who acted like they hate everyone, and I've met people who were very likable.

The fact is simple: WE decide how we will grow up!