Life of Christ
21
benevolence. The life of Christ was in marked contrast to that of the
Jews, and for this very reason they wished to destroy him.
The chief priests, and scribes, and elders, loved to pray in the most
public places; not only in the crowded synagogues, but in the corners
of the streets, that they might be seen of men, and praised for their
devotion and piety. Their acts of charity were done in the most public
manner, and for the purpose of calling the attention of the people to
themselves. Their voices were indeed heard in the streets, not only in
exalting themselves, but in contention with those who differed with
them in doctrine. They were resentful and unforgiving, proud, haughty,
and bigoted. The Lord, through his faithful prophet, shows the life of
Christ in marked contrast to the hypocritical chief priests, scribes, and
Pharisees.
The parents of Jesus yearly visited Jerusalem, in accordance with
the Jewish law. Their son, Jesus, then twelve years old, accompanied
them. In returning to their home, after they had gone a day’s journey,
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their anxiety was aroused, as they missed Jesus. He had not been seen
of them since they left Jerusalem. They supposed he was with the
company. Inquiry and search were made among their acquaintances
and relatives for their much-loved son; but no trace could be found of
him. They hastened back to Jerusalem, their hearts heavy with sorrow.
For one day of neglect they lost their son, Jesus, from their company,
which cost them three days of anxious search, with sorrowful hearts,
before they found him. This should be a lesson to those who are
following Christ. If they neglect watchfulness and prayer, and become
careless, they may, in one day lose Christ; but it may take many days
of anxious, sorrowful search to find him again, and to enjoy the peace
of mind and consolation of his grace that they lost through vain talking,
jesting, joking, and evil speaking, or even neglect of prayer.
“And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the
temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and
asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at
his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were
amazed; and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt
with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he
said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must
be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying
which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came