GS 015 Aged Twelve

The family goes to Jerusalem, as they do every year at Passover. After celebrating the festival, his parents start for home, unaware that their son isn’t with them. They assume he’s with the party, and travel for a day before asking for him among their relatives and friends. Not finding him, they turn back to search for him and reach Jerusalem again the following night. In the morning they find him in the Temple—sitting with scholars, listening to them, and asking them questions. All present are amazed by his knowledge and wit. Mary and Joseph are bewildered.

MARY. Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I searched for you in tears.

JESUS. Why did you search? Didn’t you know I’d be in my Father’s house?

They don’t understand what he’s saying. He returns to Nazareth with them and is obedient to them. Mary remembers what he told her. Jesus grows in wisdom and strength, and in the good opinion of God and men.