Why boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season*

*Feast of the Holy Family*

*Gospel : Mt 2:13-15, 19-23 or Lk 2:41-52*

*First Reading : Sir 3:2-6, 12-14 or 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28*

*Responsorial Psalm :Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 or: Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10*

*Second Reading Col 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 or 1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24*

*Why boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem?*

*1) The Importance of the Temple*

Jesus’ choice to stay in the temple highlights the  significance of the temole as the dwelling place of God’s presence.

From Jesus' work in the temple it is also clear that the temple is the center of spiritual learning. 

His engagement with the teachers reflects His deep hunger for God’s Word. This invites us to examine our dedication to learn and to grow in the Scriptures.

*2) Symbol of Transition*

Jesus' choice to stay in the temple could be seen as the symbol of transition

Transition from his childhood to public ministry

Transition from private life to public life 

Transition from the smaller family to a greater family. From biological family to divine higher family 

Transition from learning from the home people to learned people 

Transition to his His public ministry 

His time in the temple could be seen as a foreshadowing of His later ministry, teaching in synagogues and proclaiming the Kingdom of God. 

*3) Awareness of His Divine Mission*

Jesus' choice to remain temple also highlights the awareness of His unique identity and mission.

When Mary and Joseph find Him in the temple, He says, *Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?* (Luke 2:49). 

This indicates His growing understanding of His relationship with God the Father and His role in fulfilling divine purposes. 

*4) Preference for Spiritual Learning*

Jesus’ lingering in Jerusalem invites us to linger in God’s presence and deepen our understanding of Him. 

The teachers in the temple were astonished by Jesus’ wisdom, even at a young age, which challenges us to grow spiritually, and to seek wisdom and insight irrespective of our age 

*5) Revelation of Greater Truths*

At the age 12 people are able to reason out in a better way 

Jesus' choice to remain in Jerusalem and all the things which followed because of this incident, in a way reveal the greater truths about Jesus' mission and personality

The Revelation of  His intimate relationship with the Father 

Revelation of His extraordinary wisdom 

Revelation of His courage to face and challenge the so called learned people 

*6) A Lesson for His Parents*

Mary and Joseph experienced anxiety and confusion when they realized Jesus was missing.   

They didn't fully understand His explanation his explanation of being in the temple either 

So, this moment likely deepened their awareness of Jesus’ divine nature and mission, reminding them that He belonged to God first and foremost.

By staying in the temple, Jesus demonstrated the importance of prioritizing time in God’s presence. He was drawn to His “Father’s house” as a place of worship, learning, and communion with God.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*