Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
— Luke 2:51-52 (NIV)
In Luke 2:51-52, we see a snapshot of Jesus’ childhood, one that was characterized by both growth and obedience. Jesus, though fully divine, also lived fully human, growing in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man. Mary, His mother, treasured these moments and reflected on the depth of what was unfolding before her. In this season of Advent, we are reminded of the everyday moments of growth in our own lives, especially in the lives of our children and grandchildren. The passage teaches us that true growth is a process—one that involves learning, maturing, and, most importantly, a heart of obedience.
As parents and grandparents, we often long to see our children grow not just physically but spiritually as well. We desire for them to grow in wisdom, strength, and favor with both God and the people around them. Like Mary, we are called to treasure these moments and be intentional about our prayers for them. Jesus’ childhood was marked by a humble, obedient heart, and we are called to foster that same spirit in our own children. Our role is not only to guide them but to surround them with prayer and encouragement, trusting that God is shaping their lives in ways we may not always understand.
During this Advent season, let’s be intentional about cultivating a posture of joy and prayer for our children and grandchildren. Whether it’s through quiet prayers or intentional moments of conversation, we can uplift them to God, trusting that He is at work in their lives. As we reflect on the growth of Jesus, may we also reflect on the growth we desire for those we love most. May we pray for their wisdom, their hearts, and their relationships with God, so that they too may grow in favor and strength, just as Jesus did.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the children and grandchildren in our lives. We pray that You would guide them as they grow, filling them with wisdom and understanding. Help us to lead them with love and patience, pointing them toward You in all things. May their hearts be open to Your truth, and may they find favor in Your sight. We trust You with their future and ask for Your continued presence in their lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
These questions are designed to help you reflect more deeply on the themes of trust, obedience, and waiting on God’s timing during Advent.
- How can we as parents and grandparents nurture a posture of joy and gratitude for the growth of our children, both in physical and spiritual ways? How can you nurture a posture of joy and gratitude in your life?
- What specific areas of growth do you desire to pray for in the lives of your children and grandchildren or other family members this Advent season?
- What is one area of your life that you desire to improve in during this coming year?