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In the second chapter of Luke we are given a glimpse into the childhood of Jesus. His parents took Him to the Passover feast, which was a yearly occasion in those days. They left the feast, supposing Him to be in the company of others, and went a day's journey before they realized He wasn’t with them. For the next three days they diligently sought Jesus, and were amazed when they finally found him in the temple, “sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.” (Luke 2:46) The following verse explains, “And all that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:47)

His mother asked Him, “Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.” (Luke 2:48) Jesus responded, “How is it that ye sought me?” (Luke 2:49) 

I would like to ask you the same question today…how is it that we seek Jesus?

The word how has two definitions in the 1828 Webster's Dictionary.

 

  1. To what degree or extent? By this definition, Jesus asked His parents, “To what extent did you go to find me?” Mary was willing to do whatever she had to do to find her 12-year-old son. I imagine she didn’t stop seeking Him for the entirety of the three days recorded in Luke’s account. She was persistent and dedicated to finding who she sought, and her search for her son didn’t stop until she found him. What if she had given up on the first or second day of her search? Are we willing to keep seeking Jesus on a daily basis? Are we willing to diligently seek Him as his parents did in this account? 

 

  1. For what reason? By this definition, Jesus asked His parents, “For what reason did you try to find me?” What is the reason you seek Jesus in your life? To many people God is no more than a 911 service, only calling out to Him in emergency situations. I remember when I realized I was a lost sinner and needed Christ to save me. I called out to Him to save my soul from eternal damnation. After being saved for 30 years, He has become so much more than my Savior. For what reason do I seek Him now? He is everything to me. He’s a friend that sticks closer than a brother. I have learned to seek His will each day of my life, because living out God’s will for me is always what’s best. 

 

How is it that you seek Him today?