By Christina Hensley
Overview: Rather than focusing on the peaks and valleys of our journey, let us embrace the beauty of companionship with our Heavenly Father. Each step, no matter how small, is significant in His eyes. As we journey onward, let us do so with faith and courage, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Luke 2:41-52
Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover.
And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it.
Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day's journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.
And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.
When his parents saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety."
He said to them, "Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?"
But they did not understand what he said to them. Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart.
And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.
Like Jesus, our rabbi, you have been set apart for something so beautiful and holy that your life may be misunderstood at times even by those who are closest to you.
Like Jesus, our Rabbi, you have been set apart for something so holy that it requires stepping out by faith (hint: not by sight, nor human wisdom, cultural norms, what your friends think or do, what your family expects of you, etc) to actually walk it’s path.
Our Rabbi often leads you with breadcrumbs you might miss if you’re in a rush or flooded with noise. Your heavenly father’s becoming is often as quiet a whisper that can only be heard in both silence and stillness of heart and mind.
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
The way he leads you towards him, drawing you near, his deepness crying out to the deepness in you, is always by creating new pathways for intimacy with you. As you show up naked and unashamed, your weaknesses, sins, ego, lusts’ and frailties exposed plainly, you’re able to be with your rabbi in a way that you are known as you are and discover there that you are safe and already beloved as completely as you ever will be.
This is the crucible of our transformation. This is the anchor that keeps us walking in the tiny steps that lead us with him wherever he may take us, to the temple to teach, to the grocery story, or to the counselor’s couch.
Out of the goodness and kindness of His heart, he heals us over time. Our relationships with him are a journey that never ceases or completes. He sets our identity and gives us vision, but when it comes to our sanctification process, the formation of our souls, the transformation of our wounds, and the development of our own wisdom, holiness, and maturity it takes a long time and we must lean in as close as an arrow to our archers cheek.
In the Gospel of Luke, we encounter a pivotal moment in Jesus' early life, providing profound insights into his identity and purpose. Each year, his parents faithfully journeyed to Jerusalem for the Passover festival, a tradition ingrained in their faith. When Jesus was twelve, they made the pilgrimage as usual. However, on their return journey, they realized Jesus was not among them. After a frantic search, they found him in the temple, engaged in deep discussions with the teachers, astonishing all who heard him.
This narrative offers more than a historical account; it serves as a metaphor for our own spiritual journeys. Like Jesus, we are called to a life set apart, one that may be misunderstood even by those closest to us. It requires stepping out in faith, transcending societal norms and familial expectations, to walk the path ordained for us by our Heavenly Father.
Our journey with God is often marked by subtle whispers amidst life's clamor, leading us into deeper intimacy with Him. In the quiet stillness of our hearts, we encounter His presence, vulnerable and exposed. It's in this crucible of transformation that we discover our true identity and find solace in His unconditional love.
Our relationship with God is a continual journey, marked by growth and healing over time. As Eugene Peterson aptly phrases it, it's "a long obedience in the same direction." Yet, amidst the ups and downs, God sees beyond our perspective, cheering us on with unwavering love and patience.
Conclusion: Rather than focusing on the peaks and valleys of our journey, let us embrace the beauty of companionship with our Heavenly Father. Each step, no matter how small, is significant in His eyes. As we journey onward, let us do so with faith and courage, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
“It is well with my soul…” H. Spafford from the song “It is well with my Soul”/”Peace like a River”
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes…” Revelation 21:4
Our team of faith-based counselors in the Atlanta area feels immense joy to walk alongside individuals who are committed to finishing the race of life well. Regardless of where you find yourself on this journey, know that you are not alone. Your desire for healing is both valid and achievable.
I encourage you to think about the things that hold you back in life. What stops you from showing up as the person you want to be? What hinders you from experiencing your relationships in a fulfilling way? When did you start to feel this way?
Once again, it is never too late to heal. It is NEVER too late for you. And God would never give up on you, so don't give up on yourself!
In conclusion, remember this: Your journey toward healing is a testament to your resilience and the unwavering love of a higher power. Embrace it, embrace yourself, and know that the best is yet to come.
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