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Humble Hero
raised in praise and song. As his companions complained of being
tired, the sweet melody from His lips cheered them.
Through those secluded years at Nazareth, His life flowed out
in streams of sympathy and tenderness. Old people, the sorrowing,
the sinburdened, children at play, little creatures of the groves, the
patient work animals—all were happier for His presence. He whose
word upheld the worlds would stoop to relieve a wounded bird.
There was nothing unworthy of His notice, nothing to which He
refused to minister.
So He grew in wisdom and stature, in favor with God and man.
He showed Himself able to sympathize with everyone. An atmo-
sphere of hope and courage surrounded Him, making Him a blessing
in every home. Often on the Sabbath day He was called on to read
the lesson from the prophets, and the hearts of the hearers thrilled as
new light shone out from the sacred text.
Yet during all the years at Nazareth, He made no show of mirac-
ulous power. He assumed no titles. His quiet and simple life teaches
an important lesson: the freer the life of a child is from artificial ex-
citement, and the more in harmony with nature, the more favorable
it is for physical and mental vigor and spiritual strength.
Jesus is our Example. In His home life He is the Pattern for all
children and youth. The Savior stooped to accept poverty, so that
He could teach how closely we in humble places in life may walk
with God. His work began in dedicating to God the lowly trade of
the craftsmen who work for their daily bread.
He was doing God’s service just as much when laboring at the
carpenter’s bench as when working miracles for the multitude. Every
youth who follows Christ’s example of faithfulness and obedience
in His lowly home may also claim these words spoken by the Father:
“Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, my Elect One in whom My
soul delights!”
Isaiah 42:1
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