“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) Often when we hear the story of Mary and Joseph losing Jesus in the Temple we wonder about their parenting. However, hidden in this passage is evidence that not only was Mary a good mom, but she was the right choice to raise the Son of God. As parents, grandparents, and mentors we need to be aware that our actions and examples now sets the tone for the faith our children, grandchildren, and mentees will have in adulthood.
This week’s daily readings focus on passages where God used children to accomplish His plan. This is a reminder that God can and does use anyone regardless of their condition and station in life. It also reminds us that He Himself took on the form of a child when He came to earth. Finally, we remember Jesus’ warning to His disciples, “Unless you have the faith of a child, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” Read each passage and ask yourself the following questions: How did God use this child? What can I learn from the faith of this child?
Day 1: Exodus 1-2
Day 2: 1 Samuel 3
Day 3: 1 Samuel 17
Day 4: 2 Kings 5
Day 5: 2 Kings 22
Day 6: Luke 2
Day 7: John 6
The Music of Christmas, by Gary and Sheri Webber
God Came Near, by Max Lucado
Still Waiting: Hope for When God Doesn't Give You What You Want, by Ann Swindell
The Music of Christmas (2012)
Arrival (2017)
Pause (2020)
