Autumn is one of my favorite seasons—cooler weather, crockpot soups, and leaves turning into a kaleidoscope of color. My wife always says, “Fall for Jesus, He never leaves.” My own autumn joke? Someone asked if I had plans for the fall—I thought they meant the collapse of civilization!
Just as the weather changes, our lives have seasons too. Each stage brings its own spiritual lessons. Today, let’s look at one season we sometimes overlook— the childhood of Jesus. What does His boyhood teach us about forming faith in our children?
When Jesus was just a baby, Mary and Joseph brought Him to Jerusalem to dedicate Him to the Lord. “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord.” (Luke 2:23) They couldn’t afford a lamb, so they offered two pigeons—“the offering of the poor.” (Luke 2:24) Even then, the Son of God grew up in a humble, obedient home. His parents made time for faith, not just when it was convenient.
A few verses later, Jesus is twelve. “His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover.” (Luke 2:41) Every year—they built a rhythm of worship, study, and prayer. Predictable patterns of faith shape a child’s soul. Kids need more than rules and recess; they need repetition in righteousness.
Then comes every parent’s nightmare— losing your child in a crowd! Mary and Joseph realize Jesus isn’t with them on the road home. After three anxious days, they find Him in the temple “sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.” (Luke 2:46) Even as a preteen, Jesus was hungry for truth. And when Mary asked why He’d done this, He replied, “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49) What a picture of growing faith! Jesus was perfectly obedient yet learning independence. Luke says, “He went down with them and was subject to them… And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:51-52) That’s our model: growth, obedience, and favor with God.
Parents, grandparents, teachers—don’t underestimate your influence. Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they won’t depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6) The world will try to teach its own lessons— but God calls you to shape hearts that chase after Him.
Whatever season of life you’re in, make it one of spiritual growth.
Come learn and grow with us at LECC, 415897 Highway 9, Eufaula.
Small-group Bible study at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m., and Wednesday night all-age activities at 6:30 p.m.
God bless you!
Jeremy Little, Minister
