But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. … And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man. (Luke 2:19, 52)
What next? The rest of Jesus’ childhood seems to have been pretty quiet, with the exception of one trip to Jerusalem (see Luke 2:41-52). Jesus would have learned the things any child learns: how to care for His own needs, how to do chores and help around the house. Mary probably taught Him to cook (see John 21:9-13). He would have learned to make friends in the neighborhood. Jesus probably went to school and learned to read the Hebrew Scriptures. And of course Joseph would have taught Him the work of a carpenter (see Mark 6:3).
I’m glad for the quiet years, because Jesus’ family could use some time to be at peace. We know Mary thought about the events around her Son’s birth; no doubt she told Jesus the stories of the angels and the wise men. Both Mary and Joseph would have looked ahead to Jesus’ future, trying to understand God’s plan—and to prepare Him as best they could for what was to come. For they knew Jesus was the Messiah, and He would save God’s people from the power of sin and evil. And if they understood the Scriptures clearly, they would have seen the troubling prophecies about His suffering, death, and resurrection—for us.
I’m sure they prayed, both for Him and with Him. And they loved Him deeply. It was a good starting point for the One who would love us most deeply of all.
WE PRAY: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me and becoming my Savior. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
Does it surprise you that Jesus’ growing-up years were so quiet?
Why or why not?
What do you think were the most valuable things He learned during that time? Why?
