3.15.2026 | Jesus at the Temple
Luke 2:40-52
Antonio Stradivari was one of the most famous violin makers in history, and his violins are priceless treasures today. During World War II, one of these priceless violins was lost in all the chaos. For more than 30 years, this violin was missing until it was found hidden away in a trunk in a European attic! The violin was restored and played again, bringing music and joy after being silent for decades.
In this week’s Bible story, Joseph and Mary also temporarily lost a precious treasure. Only they didn’t misplace a violin; they lost sight of Jesus! When Jesus was 12 years old, His family traveled to Jerusalem for a big celebration called Passover. When it was time to return home, Mary and Joseph did not realize that Jesus had stayed behind in the temple. When they returned to Jerusalem to find Him, they found Jesus sitting with the teachers, listening and asking questions. Everyone was amazed by how much Jesus understood and how wise His answers were! Jesus told His earthly parents, “Didn’t you know I had to be in My Father’s house?”
The story of Jesus at the temple shows us that from a young age, Jesus knew He was sent to bring people hope and new life. Jesus’ death and resurrection make it possible for Christians to be close to God forever—like Jesus is close to His Father.
Jesus obeyed God, His heavenly Father, His entire life and followed His plan. It was God the Father’s plan that Jesus would die on a cross for our sins and rise again so that those who believe in Him could have eternal life.
