Streetwise

S - Luke 2:44-26 (NIV): "Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. … "Why were you searching for me?" he asked. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" "

O - Apparently, Jesus was a "street kid" for these three nights. A twelve year old on the streets of the big city with no one looking out for him and no place to call his own.  Did he sleep in some corner of the temple courts?  What did he do for food? We're not given any of these details.  When asked by his frantic mother about his days on the street he replied, I had to be about my Father's concerns (Luke 2:49). Most translations add the word "house" but it is not in the original text (Εν τοις του πατρος μου) - literally 'in the Father of me'. His answer is much broader than a location, building or religious system.  Jesus literally thought that his Father was working and that he should work with him … and all the rest would be added.  He believed and lived this at twelve as well as in his thirties.  He also calls all who follow to believe and live this reality with him.   

A - It's great to know that Jesus and his Father are already working.  They aren't waiting for me to work; they're just inviting me to join them.  They don't want me working for them but with them.  They don't want me to believe the lie of the world (secular and religious) that you're really on your own on this planet.  Jesus lives and confirms the truth that we are not alone, not on our own and not our own.  Today, I will believe Jesus about earth and not just about heaven.

P - Lord who lived on the streets,

Thank you for doing this … for living real life on real earth with a real Father and real kingdom; a kingdom that is at hand and not far away reserved for the day I die.  Thank you for working and for inviting me to join you in the work you are doing.  I admit that you already have in mind what you're going to do and I say yes to whatever part in it you have for me.  I am grateful that you want to work in our world and in us. I welcome you and your will like they do in heaven; without hesitation and without reserve. I love you back!

Steve