Famous First Words ~ Bob Coy

And He said to them, "Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" Luke 2:49 (NKJV)

These are the first recorded words of Jesus, and their context commands our careful consideration. As was customary for many Jewish families in that day, Jesus-who was only 12 years old-and His parents made the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.

Once the celebration ended, it was time for the family to make the 65-mile return trip to their hometown of Nazareth. Travelers would often make these treks in large groups for safety's sake. Imagine the throng of faithful followers, fresh from their festivities, pouring out of the Holy City and clogging the roadways that led to faraway places. Somehow, there was a miscommunication between Jesus and His parents. They thought He was with a group of relatives or neighbors when, in fact, He had never left the temple in Jerusalem.

When Joseph and Mary realized their son wasn't with them, they made a mad dash back to Jerusalem. After three days of searching for their Son, (and if you're a parent you're starting to sweat), they finally found Him. He was in the temple, amidst the religious leaders of the day. The Bible tells us that He was discussing spiritual things with them, and that these aged men were amazed by the wisdom of this 12-year-old boy.

Understandably, Jesus' parents demanded an explanation. Which brings us to His famous first words. Notice that they're actually a couple of questions, which sets the tone for the remainder of His life-as Jesus would frequently use questions to communicate spiritual truths.

Nothing opens the heart and mind quite like questions. They cause people to do some soul searching as they stop to consider what's being asked of them. And when the Lord is the one asking the questions, even as a 12-year-old boy, they're always declaring more than they're asking.

Discuss the question you would most like to ask Jesus. What is one question you think He might ask of you?

Dig into Luke 2:39–52. What does this tell you about Jesus? Share with your group why you are seeking Jesus.

Decide as a group to make this month a season when you rekindle a passion for prayer. Make the next thirty days an adventure in intercession, gratitude, confession and praise. Individually, and as a group, commit to praying through each day’s prayer challenge.