And when [Mary and Joseph] had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. And the Child [Jesus] continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. Luke 2:39-40
Though He would rile against rules and rituals established by men, and condemn the makers of such rules as “white washed tombs,” who crush people with impossible religious demands, (Luke 11:46), Christ, faithfully fulfilled all the requirements of God’s Law. “Don’t misunderstand why I have come." He said, "I did not come to abolish the Law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.” Matthew 5:17
It is a delicate balance we seek between the Law and grace, so it is best we follow Jesus’ model – expect obedience from myself while extending grace to others, and always beware of mistaking men’s rules and rituals for God’s. And in that way, we may also follow His example of continuing to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom with the grace of God upon us.
Let's Do Something About It
- Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you may be applying "men's rules or rituals" in your faith instead of relying upon God's Law alone.
- Ask the Holy Spirit if you are a vessel of grace or a barer of guilt to those around you.
- Ask God to help you grow in His grace and wisdom today.
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