The story of our Lord Jesus as one of the children in the bible is truly fascinating. At the age of 12, He journeyed to Jerusalem with His parents, but an unexpected turn of events occurred. He stayed behind, choosing to sit among the teachers, listening intently, and asking profound questions.

His parents, unaware of His decision, left Jerusalem, and the search for their missing child lasted for three agonizing days. The heartache they must have endured during that time is beyond imagination, but this is not the point of the text. The point is how everyone who heard Him was utterly astonished by His understanding and the wisdom of His answers. He was just a child, yet His wisdom was beyond His years.

Jesus as a Child–Luke 2:41-52

Jesus lived in a small, peaceful town called Nazareth over two thousand years ago. His family was no ordinary family. He had a loving and caring mother named Mary, and Joseph was like a father to Him. The world in those days was vastly different from the one you know today. No smartphones, no computers, no video games. But what they did have was something even more amazing – stories and lessons about God’s love.

The name “Jesus” means “Savior,” which was a clue to the extraordinary mission He had been chosen for. He was sent to save the world from its troubles.

You can find the story of Jesus’ childhood in the Bible, specifically in the book of Luke, in the chapter Luke 2:41-52. This part of the Bible paints a vivid picture of the special trip that Jesus and His family took to Jerusalem:

Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.  So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”

 And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”  But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.

Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.  And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Luke 2:46-52 NKJV

The Extended Story:

When Jesus was around 12 years old, He and His family embarked on a long and exciting journey to Jerusalem to participate in a grand festival. It was a time of celebration, filled with music, delicious food, and joyous laughter. Everyone was having a wonderful time, enjoying the festivities.

After the festival had concluded, it was time for everyone to head back to their homes. But this is where the story takes a fascinating turn. Jesus decided to stay behind in Jerusalem, and His parents were unaware of His decision.

Can you imagine how worried and scared His parents must have felt when they realized Jesus was not with them? They searched high and low, calling out the child’s name, retracing their steps through the crowded streets of the city. It was a frantic search that lasted for three long days.

Finally, they found Him at the temple in Jerusalem. There He was, sitting among the teachers, asking them questions, and sharing His incredible wisdom. People were astonished at how much He knew, even at such a tender age. It was as though He had a direct line to the wisdom of God.

The teachers and elders at the temple were amazed by Jesus’ understanding and the thoughtful questions He asked. His growing wisdom seemed beyond His years. But what is even more astonishing is what He said to His parents when they finally found Him.

His mother, Mary, was both relieved and a little bit upset. She asked Jesus why He had caused them so much worry. His reply was profound. He said, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be at my Father’s house?”

This showed that even at a young age, Jesus knew that His true Father was in heaven, and He was meant for something special.

How Jesus Taught Us to Grow in Wisdom

1. You’re Never Too Young: The story of Jesus teaches us that age is no barrier to curiosity, questioning, and learning. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions, explore, and seek knowledge. Your age doesn’t limit the big things you can do for God when you seek His wisdom.

2. Wisdom Comes from Learning: Like Jesus, you can grow in wisdom by reading the Bible, attending church, and talking to wise people who know about God’s love. Your journey to wisdom is an exciting adventure filled with the joy of learning.

3. God Has a Special Purpose for You: Just like Jesus had a mission to save the world, God has a unique plan for your life too. You can do remarkable things for Him, no matter how young you are. Pay attention to your talents and interests – they might be hints to your purpose.

4. Family is Important: Jesus had a loving family that cared for Him. Spending time with your family, listening to their stories, and learning from them is a wonderful way to grow in wisdom and love. Family provides a foundation of support and love.

5. Faith and God’s House: Jesus’ understanding of God’s house as His Father’s house reminds us that faith is a vital part of life. Attending church, learning about God, and connecting with your spiritual family can help you grow in faith and wisdom.

Closing Prayer

Dear God, thank you for the inspiring story of Jesus, who showed us that we can grow in wisdom and do amazing things for you, no matter how young we are. Help us to be curious, ask questions, and always remember that you have a special purpose for each of us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Extra Resources to Reinforce the Lesson

For Kids:

Song-“As Jesus Grew”

Jesus Grows Up Video from Saddleback Kids

Teaching Our Children to Seek Wise Counsel

For Parents:

Wisdom in Proverbs for Moms Devotionals

Hey Mom, God Knows Best

Guest Blogger Bio.

Oluwapelumi is a daughter of God, a blogger, a writer, and a speaker, passionate about being an example of good things and excellence to young women and ladies. Her mission is to live an authentic and purposeful life that will equip, challenge, and motivate other girls, ladies, wives, and mothers to love the Lord, their husbands, and children, live their lives on purpose and be a blessing to the world. She blogs on www.oluwapelumiboluwaji.com. She is also the creative director of Kids and Teens Bible World, a company that produces resources for children’s spiritual growth. Instagram: www.instagram.com/oluwapelumi.boluwaji