Jesus’ Early Years: The Passover
His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast.
The festival of Passover and the seven-day Feast of Unleavened Bread that followed it were important annual feasts that brought thousands to Jerusalem. Joseph and Mary brought their family to the festivals every year, and this passage gives a rare glimpse of Jesus’ childhood.
Even at the age of 12, He was deeply interested in the temple and the teachers there. “And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers” (Luke 2:47).
The Passover serves as a major milestone throughout the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ life, and it remains a meaningful festival for the Church of God today. For more about the Passover, see “Passover: What Did Jesus Do for You?”
