“…the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey… So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.” – Luke 2:43-45
During the Feast of Passover, entire communities traveled together to Jerusalem. It was normal for families to watch over one another’s children, so Joseph and Mary naturally assumed Jesus was somewhere among the group as they journeyed home. But after a full day’s travel, they realized He was not with them. Panic set in, and they rushed back to Jerusalem to find Him.
When they finally located Jesus, He was in the temple—just twelve years old—discussing Scripture with the teachers and astonishing everyone with His understanding. Mary, anxious and overwhelmed, asked why He had done this to them. Jesus’ first recorded words gently reminded them of His mission: “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” He wasn’t being disrespectful; He was simply living out His calling. Yet after this moment, Scripture tells us He returned home and lived in subjection to His earthly parents. The God of creation willingly placed Himself under human authority—what humility, what obedience, what an example.
Joseph and Mary thought Jesus was with them, only to discover they had unknowingly walked ahead without Him. Many times, we do the same. We assume He is near, but somewhere along the journey we drift. Anxiety rises, peace fades, and we begin to feel abandoned. But Jesus never leaves us nor forsakes us—we are the ones who wander. And when we finally run back to Him, we may even echo Mary’s words: “Why have You done this to us?” Yet the truth remains: He didn’t move. We did.
Are you anxious today? Does it feel like Jesus isn’t with you? Before assuming He has stepped away, ask yourself whether you’ve taken steps without Him. If you’ve drifted, run back. Seek Him intentionally. He is exactly where you left Him—ready to restore your peace, steady your heart, and walk with you again.
“Where there is no seeking of Christ, there will be no finding.” – J.C. Ryle
surrendered devotions 