I always looked at the story of 12 year old Jesus getting lost at passover as more of a call to keep yourself close to the Father. He asks his family, “Didn’t you know that I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49) But Jesus was “sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.” (Verse 46) Yes, people were amazed at his understanding, but he was listening, learning, studying.

Study is a spiritual discipline that we all should practice. The art of study isn’t just for intellectuals. It’s not just for our ethereal friends who enjoy that kind of thing. It’s for everyone. And it’s for our good. Jesus did it. He showed us by example not just how important it is to be near the Father, but how important it is to study His Word. I now see that 12 year old Jesus as practicing the art of study. He shows us how. He sets the example.

Study is a discipline for you, as well. From the most overstretched, tear stained, weary stay at home mom to the corporate business man to the server who just can’t catch a break, there is a time and a place to be in the Word. We make time for what matters, and I tell you this matters. It matters so much that Jesus himself did it. If you don’t think that fellow was busy, you’re mistaken. People were after him so much that he had to sneak away to catch a break. You can do this. Find a time.

Psalm 111:2 says, “The Lord’s works are great, studied by all who delight in them.” Do you delight in the Lord and in his works? Study them. It’s easier than you might think.