April 26, 2024
We aren’t told much about Jesus’ life from His birth to His baptism, but the one episode we are made privy to is very interesting.
At the age of twelve, Jesus accompanied his parents, Mary and Joseph, to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration. During this time, people usually traveled in large groups. As such, it is easy to understand when Scripture says that Mary and Joseph on their return trip went a day’s journey before they realized that Jesus was not with them. After three days of searching, they finally found Him at the temple in Jerusalem.
To their surprise, Jesus was in the middle of the teachers, both asking and answering questions. His wisdom astounded everyone who heard Him speak. Mary and Joseph were also amazed at His wisdom, but they were equally upset about His disappearance.
They said, “Why have you done this to us? Your father and I have sought you anxiously” (Luke 2:48). To which Jesus replied, “Why do you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business” (Luke 2:49)? Mary and Joseph didn’t know what Jesus was talking about, but He submitted to their leadership and returned to Nazareth.
Think about it. Jesus willingly submitted Himself to the parentage of Mary and Joseph. Scripture says that “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52). He submitted to Mary and Joseph because it was the will of the Father. Even though He knew more and could do more, He submitted to the authority in His life.
If Jesus was willing to be submissive to the authority in His life, then we should also do the same. That is God’s will. The only exception is when the authority commands us to do something in violation of Scripture. Then we are obligated to obey a higher authority (Acts 4:19).
This devotion is based on Marty McLain's book "The Crown has Fallen: A Study of the Kings of Judah."
