When they [Joseph and Mary] had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. Luke 2:39–40
Lord Jesus, the irony in this story is most glorious. Forty days into your incarnate life, Joseph and Mary took you the Temple and did “everything by the Law of the Lord,” on your behalf. But you came to fulfill the Law for them, and (hallelujah), for us as well.
Our hearts soar, knees bend, and hands rise… as we ponder your perfect obedience and completed sacrifice. Before taking the death we deserve, you lived the life we could not live. You were raised for our justification, and will return for our glorification. Hallelujah!
Indeed, your last words from the cross, “It is finished!” are our forever words of peace. Our lives are now hidden in you, rooted in your love, and enveloped in your grace—riches beyond calculation.
By the same grace you saved us, you’re now changing us. What will this look like in 2021? In what ways are we not as free, holy, and joyful as you intend? The Gospel put an end to all earning, but not all effort. You deserve our obedient love, Jesus, and you call us to Spirit-surrender.
What sin and shame, selfishness and resentments, habits and fears will you free us from in the new year? So very Amen we pray, in your most glorious and gracious name.