As A Child

Jesus was raised as a child in the wicked town of Nazareth, His home was a poor home and work was required by all.  He faithfully and cheerfully did His part in bearing the burdens of the household.  He was the Commander of heaven, and angels had delighted to fulfill His word; now He was a willing servant, a loving obedient son.

Jesus did not shirk responsibility, as many who profess to be His followers.  It is because they seek to evade this discipline that so many are weak and inefficient.  They may possess precious and amiable traits, but they are nerveless and almost useless when difficulties are to be met or obstacles surmounted.  The positiveness and energy, the solidity and strength of character, manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the same discipline that He endured and the grace that He received is for us.

As long as our Savior lived among men, He shared the lot of the poor.  He knew by experience their cares and hardships, and He could comfort and encourage all humble workers.  Those who have a true conception of the teaching of His life will never feel that a distinction must be made between classes, that the rich are to be honored above the worthy poor.

He carried into His labor cheerfulness and tact.  It requires much patience and spirituality to bring Bible religion into the home life and into the workshop, to bear the strain of worldly business, and yet keep the eye single to the glory of God.  This is where Christ was a helper, He was never so full of worldly care as to have no time or thought for heavenly things.  Often He expressed the gladness of His heart by singing psalms and heavenly songs.  Often the dwellers in Nazareth heard His voice raised in praise and thanksgiving to God.  He held communion with heaven in song; and as His companions complained of weariness from labor, they were cheered by the sweet melody from His lips.  His praise seemed to banish the evil angels, and, like incense, fill the place with fragrance.  The minds of His hearers were carried away from their earthly exile, to the heavenly home.

He drew the sympathy of all hearts by showing Himself capable of sympathizing with all.  The atmosphere of hope and courage made Him a blessing in every home.  Jesus is our example.  There are many who dwell with interest upon the years of His ministry but it is in His home life that He is the example to all children and youth. He condescended to poverty that He might teach how closely we in a humble lot may walk with God.  He lived to please, honor, and glorify His Father in the common things of life.  He was doing God's service just as much when laboring at the carpenter's bench as when working miracles for the multitude.

We can do the same as He did in our lowly walks in life.  We have the same Father in heaven that He had and He will give us the same strength of character that He had.  We can have a song in our heart as we go about our duties and be cheerful and loving in our simple walk of life.  I want to be like that.  God help us all to walk close to You in our daily walk and be a loving and cheerful Christian and example to all.  Grandma Joan

These thoughts were taken from 'Desire of Ages' chapter 7.