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Christ’s Problems as a Child
51
When questioned why He did not join in the frolics of the youth
of Nazareth, He said, It is written, “I will delight Myself in Thy
statutes: I will not forget Thy word.”
Psalm 119:16
.
Jesus did not contend for His rights. He did not retaliate when
roughly used, but bore insult patiently. Again and again He was
asked, Why do You submit to such despiteful usage, even from Your
brothers? It is written, He said, “My son, do not forget My teaching,
but let your heart keep My commandments... . Let not loyalty and
faithfulness forsake you; bind them about your neck, write them on
the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in
the sight of God and man.”
Proverbs 3:1-4
, RSV.
Why He Had to Be Different
Jesus’ course of action was a mystery to His parents. He seemed
as one set apart. His hours of happiness were found when alone
with nature and with God. Early morning often found Him in some
secluded place, meditating, searching the Scriptures, or in prayer.
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From these quiet hours He would return home to take up His duties
again.
Mary believed that the holy child born of her was the Messiah,
yet she dared not express her faith. Throughout His life she was
a partaker in His sufferings. She witnessed with sorrow the trials
brought upon Him in His childhood and youth. By her vindication
of what she knew to be right in His conduct, she herself was brought
into trying positions. She looked upon the associations of the home
and the mother’s watchcare over her children as vital in the formation
of character. The sons and daughters of Joseph knew this, and
by appealing to her anxiety tried to correct the practices of Jesus
according to their standard.
Mary often remonstrated with Jesus and urged Him to conform
to the usages of the rabbis. But He could not be persuaded to change
His habits of contemplating the works of God and alleviating suffer-
ing. When the priests and teachers required her aid in controlling
Jesus, she was greatly troubled; but peace came to her heart as He
presented Scripture upholding His practices.
At times she wavered between Jesus and His brothers, who did
not believe He was the Sent of God; but evidence was abundant that