Topical Bible: Joseph: Husband of Mary: Attends the Annual Feast at Jerusalem With his Family

◄ Joseph: Husband of Mary: Attends the Annual Feast at Jerusalem With his Family ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus and husband of Mary, is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for his righteousness and obedience to God's will. One of the notable events in Joseph's life is his attendance at the annual Feast of Passover in Jerusalem with his family, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke.

The Gospel of Luke provides a glimpse into the devout nature of Joseph and his family. Luke 2:41-42 states, "Every year His parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up according to the custom of the Feast." This passage highlights Joseph's commitment to observing Jewish law and traditions, as he led his family in the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, a journey that was both a religious obligation and a demonstration of faith.

The Feast of Passover was one of the three major Jewish festivals that required attendance in Jerusalem, and it commemorated the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Joseph's participation in this annual event underscores his role as a faithful Jew who adhered to the commandments and sought to instill these values in his family, including Jesus.

During this particular visit to Jerusalem, an incident occurred that further illustrates Joseph's character and the dynamics within the Holy Family. After the feast, as they were returning home, Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem unbeknownst to His parents. Luke 2:43-45 narrates, "When those days were over and they were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but His parents were unaware of it. Thinking He was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began to look for Him among their relatives and friends."

Upon realizing that Jesus was missing, Joseph and Mary returned to Jerusalem, searching for Him anxiously. This response reflects Joseph's deep concern and responsibility as a father. After three days, they found Jesus in the temple, engaging with the teachers. Luke 2:48 records Mary's words, which likely echoed Joseph's sentiments: "Son, why have You treated us this way? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for You."

Joseph's presence at this event, though not verbally recorded, is implicit in the narrative. His actions demonstrate his dedication to his family and his role in Jesus' upbringing. The incident concludes with Jesus returning to Nazareth with His parents, where He continued to grow in wisdom and stature, as noted in Luke 2:51-52 : "Then He went down to Nazareth with them and was subject to them. But His mother treasured up all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man."

Joseph's participation in the annual Feast at Jerusalem, along with his response to the events that transpired, highlights his faithfulness, obedience, and the pivotal role he played in the early life of Jesus. His example of devout adherence to religious practices and his protective nature as a father are integral to understanding his character within the biblical narrative.