We know relatively little about Jesus’ youth. But this week we do have the opportunity to hear of our Savior at the age of twelve. The entire life of our Lord is lived as a substitute – doing all that we ought to do as God our heavenly Father created us to. This is no less true in Jesus’ youth. Jesus is surprised that His parents looked anywhere but His Father’s house to find Him. Where else would you expect to find God’s children? They should be where their Father is to rest and be fed and nourished. That is what all of God’s children, be they young or old, are supposed to be doing, what they need to be doing. We are all to be in our Father’s house. Joseph was a faithful Christian spiritual head, making sure that his wife and children were in the synagogue on the Sabbath and yearly in the temple in Jerusalem to receive God’s mercy. Husbands and fathers, let us follow the example of faithful Joseph. We need to be in our Father’s house, we and our children, hearing His Word and receiving His gifts. We too need to gather with our Christian family around our Father’s table. I pray that each of you, young and old alike, would follow the example of Christ and be in your heavenly Father’s house this coming Lord’s Day. Our Father desires to have all his children gathered around His table. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Pastor Ulmer
