So, I think Jesus might have been a challenging child.
Now, hear me out before you judge.
There is only one story in the Bible about Jesus prior to him reaching manhood. As with all things contained in the Word, I believe that singular instance itself, along with the narrative, has purpose. Luke 2:41-52 details the story of when Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover.
When he was 12 years old, Jesus and his family took a road trip to Jerusalem. After the feast, they headed home, but -- unbeknownst to his parents -- Jesus stayed behind. Some may wonder how such a thing could be allowed to happen, but it happens all the time -- even today. You know how it is: A child could easily get lost in a large crowd, and this particular crowd was full of friends and family. Mary and Joseph initially wondered where he was, but they weren't worried. They figured he was with his cousins or friends. They told themselves, "He must be riding with Uncle Zebediah and them."
Mary and Joseph rode a whole day and then, to their horror, realized Jesus was not with Uncle Z. They searched among the crowd and couldn't find him anywhere. Can you imagine how much they were freaking out? They had just lost the Son of God, the Savior of man.
Let's pause here for a moment.
What kind of kid just ditches his whole family in a strange town, miles away from home and anything he really knows, to do his own thing? Think about that.
So, Mary and Joseph turn and go back to Jerusalem -- another day's trip, frantically searching for their son along the way and trying not to imagine all the tragedies that might have befallen him. They looked everywhere and, after three days, found him in the temple. Teachers were gushing over him, commenting on how well he understood the scripture and answered questions. His parents, however, were not as impressed.
I can only imagine what my reaction would have been.
I know how anxious I get when I can't get in touch with my children after a few hours of trying. My experience goes from annoyance to fear to anger to dread -- and then, when I finally contact them, relief -- followed by an immediate conniption. I can see Jesus' parents grabbing and embracing him, first asking if he is OK and then launching into the inquiry.
"Boy, what were you thinking?" they ask. "We've been worried sick looking all over for you for the past three days -- three WHOLE days!"
And then Jesus says, "Well, why were you looking all over? Didn't you know that I'd be right here?"
Imagine, after almost four days of absence, after you've entertained the worst fears of your life, your 12-year-old just said this to you. If -- when you project yourself into this situation -- you can still picture the child upright after that little comment, congratulations. You're made of sturdier stuff than I.
I don't know how his parents chose to deal with Jesus, but the Bible tells us that he then returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. Had Jesus just been a model child prior to this event, I wouldn't think there'd be any need to mention his obedience at this point. I don't presume that it's a stretch to believe that the adolescent son of the Most High might have had a bit of an issue taking instruction from his earthly parents, whom He knew He came to save. The scripture suggests that some conformance on Jesus' part might have been made.
When I reflect on my own life and that of my sons, I find it important to remember that even Jesus' parents dealt with the challenges of adolescence. I joke with my oldest that I didn't know if he would make it to 14, and the joke continues to run with his younger brothers.
What I do know is that every day I pray that, like Jesus, they will grow in wisdom, stature and favor with God and all people, just as my mother prayed for me.
And I know there is hope yet.
Now, if they could only turn water into wine.
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Robert Honeycutt is the office manager at The Weekly Vista. His email address is [email protected]. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
Editorial on 08/17/2016