In this Christmas season we celebrate that Jesus has come among us to free us from our enslavement to sin and to restore the dignity of our human nature. With Christ dwelling richly within us, we are empowered to answer our divine callings.
In the gospel Jesus models this by spending time in his “Father’s house,” listening carefully and learning from the teachers. Because of this faithfulness, he increased in wisdom and “in divine and human favor.” Likewise, Samuel learned from the scriptures. This helped him to grow both in stature and “in favor with the Lord and with the people.”
Both Jesus and Samuel are young boys in today’s texts, yet they’re already in the temple answering their unique calls. This illuminates that as God’s children, with the Spirit at work within us, it is never too soon to begin the work of ministry.
The Colossians text instructs us, as God’s chosen ones, to clothe ourselves with love. Humility and the attributes of a servant will enable us to forgive one another and live in peace. In addition, a heart of gratitude is important.
Together, these scriptures help us recognize that each one of us is called through our baptism. God seals us with the Holy Spirit and sets about to transform us through that call. As we answer it, we become who God intends us to be.