Growing

Growing

Q: How old was Jesus when he amazed the men at the Temple with his knowledge?

• a. 12
• b. 16
• c. 18

Think about your life. What things make up your day? School, homework, music practice, sports practice or games, talking to friends, helping at home, going to church, and the list goes on. You do many things each day, and hopefully they help you learn more, stay healthy, form positive relationships, and draw closer to God.

We don’t know much about Jesus’ early years, but Luke 2:52 says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.” That means he grew in all areas of his life—intellectually, relationally, physically, and spiritually.

Jesus visited the Temple when he was 12 years old. The spiritual leaders were amazed at all he knew. Jesus asked and answered questions with understanding and wisdom.

Can you imagine what it would be like to have Jesus in your Sunday school class or Bible club? He’d be the one ignoring the whispering and the goofing around, and he’d be focusing on the teacher’s words instead. He’d be the one asking questions to make sure he understood the lesson. He may even be asking questions the teachers would have to research. How about you? Would you be listening with him, or would you be more focused on what your friends were doing?

For You

Jesus grew in all areas of his life. Ask yourself, Do the activities I take part in each day help me to grow physically? Intellectually? Spiritually? Relationally? If not, it might be time to look for some new activities.

Answer: a

Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. . . . All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.   Luke 2:41-42, 47

(The Whole Story: Luke 2:41-52)