April 8

"They knew that no authority could be found in Scripture for their traditions. They realized that in spiritual understanding Jesus was far in advance of them. Yet they were angry because He did not obey their dictates. Failing to convince Him, they sought Joseph and Mary, and set before them His course of noncompliance. Thus He suffered rebuke and censure. At a very early age, Jesus had begun to act for Himself in the formation of His character, and not even respect and love for His parents could turn Him from obedience to God's word. "It is written" was His reason for every act that varied from the family customs. But the influence of the rabbis made His life a bitter one. Even in His youth He had to learn the hard lesson of silence and patient endurance."

          Desire of Ages, page 86 from the chapter, 'Days of Conflict'

     Jesus suffered rebuke and censure – from Joseph and Mary! Can you imagine the little chat that Joseph and Mary will have with their ‘Son’ just by one of the eastern gates in heaven. The setting will be wonderful, consider the beauty of those lovely gates, the kaleidoscope of colours making up the foundations and then the golden pavements as clear as crystal. Then think of the stern look Jesus offers His former parents as He points out their failures during those critical years.

     Nah! The arms will open, the embrace would start and the joy would continue. True, those people had told their son off, Jesus had taken the rebuke and Mum and Dad had already learned that what mattered was, “Thus saith the Lord” or “It is written”.

     What Mum and Dad found is what we need to put into practice ourselves. "Thus saith the Lord" is far more important than, "But we've always done it this way."

The song for today is by Rory and Joey and was selected by Bryn. Please click on the picture to listen.