Chapter 5—Child Life of Jesus
Jesus in His childhood lived in a little mountain village. He was
the Son of God, and He might have had any place on earth for His
home.
He would have been an honor to any place. But He did not go
to the homes of rich men or the palaces of kings. He chose to dwell
among the poor in Nazareth.
Jesus wants the poor to know that He understands their trials. He
has borne all that they have to bear. He can sympathize with them and
help them.
Of Jesus in His early years the Bible says, “The child grew, and
waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was
upon Him.” “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor
with God and man.”
Luke 2:40, 52
.
His mind was bright and active. He was of quick understanding,
and showed a thoughtfulness and wisdom beyond His years. Yet His
ways were simple and childlike, and He grew in mind and body as
other children grow.
But Jesus was not in all things like other children. He always
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showed a sweet, unselfish spirit. His willing hands were always ready
to serve others. He was patient and truthful.
Firm as a rock in standing for the right, He never failed to be gentle
and courteous toward all. In His home, and wherever He might be, He
was like a cheerful sunbeam.
He was thoughtful and kind toward the aged and the poor, and He
showed kindness even to the dumb animals. He would care tenderly
for a little wounded bird, and every living thing was happier when He
was near.
In the days of Christ the Jews gave much care to the education of
their children. Their schools were connected with the synagogues, or
places of worship, and the teachers were called rabbis, men who were
supposed to be very learned.
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