Every year, Jesus traveled with his parents, Mary and Joseph, to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. The city was crowded with families, prayers, and songs as people gathered at the temple to remember all that God had done.

When it was time to go home, Mary and Joseph started the journey with the others, thinking Jesus was nearby with friends or relatives. But as the day went on, they realized he was missing. Worried, they rushed back to Jerusalem and searched everywhere for him.

After three long days, they found Jesus in the temple. He was sitting among the teachers, listening and asking questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at how much he understood. When Mary finally spoke, she said, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you” (Luke 2:48).

Jesus answered, “Why were you searching for me? Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49). Even as a boy, Jesus knew where he belonged—close to God, learning and growing in faith.

What We Learned

• Jesus loved being close to God and learning about God’s ways.
• It’s okay to ask questions and learn more about our faith.
• God welcomes us into God’s house, just like Jesus.
• We grow in faith when we listen, learn, and stay connected to God.