The Beginning:
Each year, Jesus’ family traveled from Nazareth to Jerusalem for the Passover feast. When Jesus was twelve, he went with them as usual. After the feast ended and the group started home, Mary and Joseph assumed Jesus was with their relatives and fellow travelers.
The Middle:
After a day’s journey, they realized he was missing and returned to Jerusalem to search for him. Three days later they found Jesus in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening and asking questions. Those who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. Mary expressed their distress, but Jesus replied that he had to be in his Father’s house (or “about his Father’s business”).
The End:
Mary and Joseph did not fully grasp what he meant, yet Jesus went down with them to Nazareth and remained obedient to them. Mary kept these things in her heart. Jesus continued to grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people.
This episode shows that Jesus’ identity and mission are rooted in a unique relationship with God as Father, even while he lives within a faithful Jewish family. His presence in the temple highlights continuity with Israel’s worship and Scriptures, anticipating his later teaching ministry. The story holds together Jesus’ true humanity—growing, learning, and obeying—and his distinctive divine sonship and calling within God’s redemptive purposes.
Passover was one of Israel’s major pilgrimage festivals, drawing large crowds to Jerusalem. Families often traveled in caravans for safety and support, which helps explain how a child could be assumed to be with relatives for part of the journey. In the Second Temple period, respected teachers commonly engaged students through questions and discussion in temple precincts, a setting consistent with Luke’s description.
“Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” — Luke 2:49
Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.
1. After the Passover feast ended and the group started home, what did Mary and Joseph assume about Jesus?
2. Where did Mary and Joseph find Jesus three days later?