Okay, this next story is one of my favorites — because it's about ME as a kid. That's right. I was twelve years old, and I already knew exactly who I was.
Every year, my family made the trip from Nazareth to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. Thousands of people from all over Israel flooding into the city. Roads packed with families, donkeys, carts, singing, and laughter. A massive road trip — ancient style.
The festival was incredible. But when it was time to head home, something happened that my parents didn't expect.
They left. Without me.
Now before you think, "How do you lose JESUS?" — families traveled in large groups back then. Dozens of relatives and neighbors all walking together. Kids ran around with cousins and friends. Mary and Joseph each assumed I was somewhere in the group. No big deal, right?
A whole day went by. A FULL day of walking. Then Mary turns to Joseph: "Have you seen Jesus?" Joseph looks at Mary: "I thought He was with you."
Uh oh.
They panicked. They turned around and rushed all the way back to Jerusalem. For three days they searched the city. THREE days. Can you imagine? My mom was absolutely frantic.
And where did they finally find me? In the temple. Sitting right in the middle of the greatest religious teachers in Israel. I wasn't just listening — I was asking deep questions that made these scholars lean forward and think. And when I answered their questions? Everyone was stunned. A twelve-year-old going toe-to-toe with the smartest minds in the nation.
My mom rushed in and said, "Son! Why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been searching for you everywhere! We were worried sick!"
And I looked at her and said something that confused everyone at the time: "Why were you searching for me? Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?"
See, I wasn't being disrespectful. I was telling them something important. The temple was my Father's house — my REAL Father. God. Even at twelve, I understood my purpose. I knew where I belonged.
Then I went home with them and was obedient to them. And the Bible says I grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people.
Here's what I want you to know — you are NEVER too young to know God. You're never too young to amaze people with your faith, to ask big questions, to sit in God's presence and learn. Don't let anyone tell you your age disqualifies you. Some of the most powerful moments of faith happen when you're young.
Your relationship with God matters right now. Not someday. NOW.
See you in the next episode!
