Follow Christ’s First Step

One of the verses we looked at last time encouraged us to follow Christ’s steps.  Today we are going to look at what his first step was.
 
I’m not a theologian. I have no idea at what point in his earthly life Jesus became aware of what the future held for him.   However, I believe that by the age of twelve, Jesus knew something of His Heavenly Father’s plan for his future. I believe Jesus understood that he was the Only Son of God, and that God the Father had placed him on the earth to fulfill God’s plan. 

Jesus and his family were in Jerusalem for the annual celebration of the Feast of the Passover. Like many twelve year olds, Jesus was inquisitive, and went off on his own.  He was found three days later in deep discussion with the teachers and leaders of the synagogue. 
 
Luke 2:46–47 (NRSV) 
 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. 
 
The traditional method of Jewish teaching was for the Rabi and the student to engage in both asking and answering questions.  It seems that this is exactly what was happening between Jesus and the teachers that day.  Those who heard the discussion “were amazed”.  The questions Jesus asked and the answers he gave indicated there was something very unique about this young man. That day, God offered a glimpse of who Jesus really was, although most did not understand that this young man was the long awaited Messiah. 

After Jesus’ three-day adventure, he followed his parents back home. Even Jesus, the son of God, creator of the universe, the one who would one day have millions follow him, began his ministry by following others. 
  
Luke 2:51 & 52 (HCSB)
Then He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

Jesus followed his parents home and willingly obeyed them. 
 
Lord Jesus, help me follow your every step.  Help me follow you, even though I am uncertain as to where you will lead  me.  Please give me the strength to be an example of a willing obedient follower, so that others will learn to follow your footsteps also.  

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