THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
The Young Jesus: Lk 2,40-52
Verse 40 provides a conventional statement about the youth of the hero and the point is repeated at the end, in verse 52. Once again, there are echoes of Samuel, this time the comment about him growing in stature and favour with the Lord and the people (1 Sam 2,26). I added a proverb about training children (Proverbs 22,6), the whole book of Proverbs being about the young choosing the path of wisdom. Growing in wisdom is human, grace or favour comes from God. Thus both aspects of Jesus are brought out.
The three pilgrimages a year to Jerusalem were prescribed (Ex 23,14-17; Dt 16,16). These would have been social occasions too with others from the same village, as we see in verse 44. All these details heightens the portrait of Mary and Joseph as observant Jews.
At twelve, Jesus would have been on the edge of manhood. It was a time when he could have been exploring his independence, similar to a teenager today.
Jesus therefore lets his parents leave Jerusalem whilst he stays behind (verses 43-45).
Three days in verse 46 might carry a hint of the resurrection. It's possible to see here an anticipation of Jesus after his resurrection teaching his disciples how to interpret the scriptures (24,27.45).
In verses 46-47, Jesus is shown as a full participant in the debate. He is not there as a disciple.
We can note that it is Mary not Joseph who speaks in verse 48 with her disgress and her rebuke. The earlier scene in the Temple for the presentation (2,33) might have made them more aware of Jesus' special role.
Therefore, in verse 49 we have the first words of Jesus in the Gospel. These are important because he recognises his calling. The Greek is not clear but it seems to make more sense to translate "my Father's affairs" rather than "my Father's house". The latter is more like John (Jn 2,16) than Luke. Whilst the Temple is a key place in this Gospel, most of Jesus' ministry, his Father's affairs, will take place elsewhere.
Whilst in verse 50, Mary and Joseph did not understand, Mary we are told in verse 51 reflected as she had done earlier (2,19). Stored up is better than the traditional "treasured".
For Jesus himself, this episode shows us that he is growing as a human being. He is obedient but he is not beyond pushing his boundaries rather far as he seeks his future, despite the understandable anxiety for his parents. Just like any other child.
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