Finding Jesus (Luke 2:34-52)

The Lord is found by all who seek Him, revealing Himself to us freely and in spite of sin.

“His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers” (Luke 2:41-47).

Mary and Joseph lost the Lord, forgetting where He was, but He RECEIVED them when they came back, even though still ignorant of much - “So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, ‘Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.’ And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’ But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them. Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men“ (vs48-52).

The Lord isn’t harsh and He’s plenteous in forgiveness.  I am to grow and learn, and He patiently receives me after REPEATED falls and failures, even though I see so little, even now.  Let me learn, let me ponder, and let me believe truth too great to be seen any way except by faith .

Mary and Joseph had revelation that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.  Simeon blessed them, declaring what God has done and will do for them, even though painful - “And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this Child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yes, a sword shall pierce through your own souls also,)that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (vs34-35).  Anna saw Him and spoke of Him to all that received salvation by faith alone - “And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and she was a widow of about eighty four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spoke of Him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (vs36-38).  This revealed Christ is found by us freely, and He is found when we seek Him, after many storms.

It doesn’t matter that it’s OUR fault that He’s missing. He receives you, so on this fact receive others.  Love is the best way to show the truth of election.