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Christ’s Problems as a Child
53
When questioned why He did not join in the amusements of
the young people of Nazareth, He said, It is written, “I will delight
myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.”
Psalm 119:16
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Jesus did not contend for His rights. He did not retaliate when
people treated Him roughly, but He bore insult patiently. Again and
again He was asked, Why do You submit to such hateful treatment,
even from Your brothers? He said, It is written,
My son, do not forget my law,
But let your heart keep my commands; ...
Let not mercy and truth forsake you;
Bind them around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart,
And so find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.
Proverbs 3:1-4
Why He Had to Be Different
Jesus’ course of action was a mystery to His parents. He seemed
to be Someone set apart. He found His hours of happiness when
He was alone with nature and with God. Early morning often found
Him in some secluded place, meditating, searching the Scriptures,
or in prayer. From these quiet hours He would return home to take
up His duties again.
Mary believed that the Holy Child born to her was the Messiah,
yet she dared not express her faith. Throughout His life she shared
in His sufferings. With sorrow she witnessed the trials that came
on Him in His childhood and youth. When she stood up for what
she knew to be right in His conduct, she herself was brought into
difficulty. She considered the home relationships and the mother’s
watchcare over her children to be vital in the formation of character.
The sons and daughters of Joseph knew this, and by appealing to
her anxiety, they tried to correct the practices of Jesus according to
their standard.
Mary often reasoned strongly with Jesus, urging Him to conform
to the rules of the rabbis. But not even she could persuade Him