Knowing The Word in Luke 1:80, John in the Wilderness

This is our shortest reading. Just one verse to read. Take some time to ponder it. Why does Luke truncate John’s upbringing after he spent so much time investigating his story? Perhaps his parents died—they were older at his birth—and he was raised by others in the wilderness—perhaps by the Essenes, the strange sect-like Jews known for the Dead Sea scrolls. This is speculation. Another thing to consider is that the wilderness was the traditional home of the Old Testament prophets. Perhaps Luke wants us to see John as a true prophet from the beginning of his life.

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to grow strong in spirit as I spend time in prayer and in your word. Amen.