Knowing The Word in Luke 2:39-40

The Return to Nazareth

39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.

Comments

Luke has Jesus’ family quickly returning to Galilee. He makes no reference to the flight into Egypt as Matthew does. Why not? Matthew has a different interest than Luke. Matthew has a theme of Jesus being greater than Moses in his first two chapters. Luke is more interested in Jesus as a universal savior for “all the people.” Luke’s omission of the escape to Egypt does not mean it did not happen. It’s just not vital to his account. He ends the story of Jesus’ birth by telling us that Jesus grew and matured as other children did, but the difference is the “favor of God” upon him in an unusual and increasing manner, leading us into the next phase of his life.

Application

Families are important. They are where we “grow up” in our knowledge of and nurture in the Lord. While there is little influence we can have on our families of origin, there is much we can do in our families. If you are married and have children, what is important to you in how you raise your children? The Bible is very clear that as parents, we are to lead our children to know and love God and his commandments.

Prayer

Father, parenting is hard, and I need your help. I want my child(ren) to know and love you. May I be a full-time witness to them. When I stumble as a parent, correct me and pick me up that I may lead again. When I sin against you and my children, help me repent and ask you and them for forgiveness, knowing that this is not weakness but strength. When I am impatient with those I love, fill me with your Spirit, growing his fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in me. Because, as you know best, I need this fruit in my life!