Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. When Jesus was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they traveled back home, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem, but Joseph and Mary did not know it. They thought Jesus had traveled back with them. They traveled a day's journey and looked for Him among their relatives and acquaintances. When they could not find Jesus, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him.
After three days, they found Jesus, sitting in the temple, sitting in the middle of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. All who heard Him were astonished at His answers and understanding. When Mary and Joseph saw Jesus, they were amazed. His mother asked Him why He had done this to them. She told Jesus that they had been looking for Him anxiously. Jesus asked them if they were aware that He must be about His Father's business. They did not understand what He was talking about.
Jesus went back to Nazareth with His parents and was obedient to them. His mother remembered all these things. Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
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