The search, the teachers and the return home
When Jesus was twelve, his family went to Jerusalem for Passover, following their yearly custom. After the feast, Mary and Joseph began the journey home without realizing that he had stayed behind. When they discovered he was missing from their group, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him (Luke 2:41–45).
After three days, they found Jesus in the temple courts among the teachers. He was listening and asking questions; everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. Luke presents an exchange involving both Jesus' questions and his responses (Luke 2:46–47). [1]
Mary told Jesus that she and Joseph had been anxiously searching for him. He replied, “Why were you searching for me?” and asked, “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” We understand his answer as pointing to his relationship with God (Luke 2:48–49). [1]
Jesus then returned to Nazareth with Mary and Joseph and remained obedient to them. Mary treasured these things in her heart. The episode ends with family life continuing, and Luke's description of Jesus growing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people (Luke 2:51–52). [2]
