Moving Forward

The subject of Jesus' childhood is delicate.  On the one hand, we have fanciful stories from ancient texts like the Gospel of Thomas that describe a wonderworking, sometimes vindictive, child magician. On the other hand, we have near silence from the authentic Gospels and wonder how to fathom this dimension of the incarnation.  

In our text for Sunday (Luke 2:41-52), Luke depicts an important event in the transition from Jesus' childhood to adulthood, when he was twelve.  On the cusp of entering adulthood, Jesus is shown in a complex relationship with his elders, especially his parents and teachers. Here, we see no fanciful wonder-worker.  But we do see Jesus' capacity for listening, for engaging, for communicating deeply.  It is poignant, because we see how Jesus begins to move independently of his family, to be present with them while aligning with his unique relationship with his heavenly Father and the dynamics of his kingdom.  Jesus' independence is difficult for Mary and Joseph. 

As Immanuel, "God With Us," Jesus bridges the distance between our finite mortality and God's eternal world.  As grateful as we are, we may often find it disorienting and even "distressing," as Mary says.  But to her credit and our example, Mary did not withdraw or strike out; she "treasured these things in her heart."  Sometimes, it takes awhile to discern God's unfolding plan.  In the meantime, Jesus is gracious, careful, present, and able to bring his world and ours together more richly and fruitfully.  

In the end, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph move forward together.  It's an encouraging thought as we move into a new year.