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Luke 2:41-52 English Standard Version (ESV)
The Boy Jesus in the Temple 41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. 43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day's journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances,45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.48 And when his parents[a] saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” 49 And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?” 50 And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature[c] and in favor with God and man. |
“Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Verse 49)
With great anxiety Mary and Joseph search for Him. Three days later the One who was lost has been found. Mary’s first words are, “Child, why have you treated us like this?” We are rightfully concerned for our children. Growing up means establishing our identity and figuring out our place in this world. It involves creating relationships, setting priorities, and making decisions. Ultimately, growing up means moving out and finding a new home.
This is a story about growing up, but not Jesus’ growing up - about Mary and Joseph growing up, you and me growing up. It is not about age but about moving into deeper and more authentic relationships with God, each other, and ourselves. Jesus is the One who grows us up. It is as if Jesus is saying to Mary
“Remember,
the angel told you I would be the Son of God
that night in Bethlehem - Angels praising God, shepherds glorifying God.
Three men from the East, their gifts, and adoration.
Joseph’s dreams that guided us to Egypt and back.
Where else could I be but here?”
Jesus has moved from their home to His Father’s home. This is what Jesus would ask of Simon and Andrew, James and John. “Follow me” would be the invitation for them to leave their homes, their nets, their fathers and move to a different place, live a different life, see with different eyes. It is today what he asks of you and me.
Matt and Rose G