God’s purpose for Jesus began with a process that did not look anything like the promise!
And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7
The circumstances of Mary & Joseph’s life were certainly no indication to the special baby that Mary was carrying. In fact, when Mary was ready to give birth to the baby, there was no room for them at the inn, and they had to be placed in a stable! It would seem that the Prince of Peace entering the world would have a grander welcome by those who had been waiting for Him! In fact, no one recognized this event except a few shepherds and wise men.
Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. Luke 2:46-47
As a twelve year old, when Jesus discussed the word at the temple with the religious leaders, no one stopped Him or His parents to tell them that this young man was made for ministry. Nowadays, we are quick to spot a talented kid in academics or in the sports. These special kids can get much attention from teachers and mentors to coach them to get better at what they do. This was not the case with Jesus. While some were astonished with the young boy’s knowledge of God, no one took it further and offered to be His mentor.
When Jesus was baptized with water, heaven opened and the Spirit of the Lord spoke about His son being well pleasing to Him. However, the subsequent stories and encounters of Jesus with those who should have noticed His uniqueness, did not demonstrate that anything had changed in the public view of Him. In fact, after beheading of John the Baptist some wondered if Jesus was John who had risen from the dead.
Additionally, Jesus’ disciples did not fully comprehend who He was and what He intended to do, but He was secure about it. In all the stages of Jesus’ life and ministry, most people did not fully understand who Jesus was. However, Jesus knew who He was and what His mission was on the earth. Whether people believed Him or not, it did not deter Him or discourage Him from His mission.
The reality is that most people will not understand or appreciate where God is taking us. Furthermore, the circumstances could be the opposite of what God has spoken over our lives. In order to stand strong in the midst of the process, we need to continue to do what God is asking us to do without any specific goal except to please Him. If we place limitations to our obedience or wait for others to be convinced of God’s call in our lives, we are guaranteed to find ourselves in the position of giving up or being completely disillusioned with our faith.
Where are you in God’s process? How are you handling the process? People may not understand God’s call on your life. Are you ok with it? Do you need others to be convinced of God’s call in your life before you are convinced of it?
