Free printable Bible coloring page

Mary and Joseph Search

Luke 2:41-52

The Big Idea

When people are concerned, they can search carefully and stay together. This story also shows the value of listening, asking questions, growing in wisdom, and obeying parents.

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The Bible Story

Jesus in the Temple as a Boy

Luke 2:41–52 tells how twelve-year-old Jesus traveled with Mary and Joseph to Jerusalem for Passover. After the festival, Jesus remained in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know. Assuming he was with the traveling group, Mary and Joseph searched among relatives and acquaintances for one day. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem. After three days, they found Jesus in the temple among the teachers, listening and asking questions. Those who heard him were amazed at his understanding and answers. Jesus spoke about being in his Father’s house or about his Father’s affairs, but Mary and Joseph did not understand his meaning at that time. He later returned to Nazareth with them, was obedient, and grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and people.

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Luke 2:41–52 tells how twelve-year-old Jesus traveled with Mary and Joseph to Jerusalem for Passover. After the festival, Jesus remained in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know. Assuming he was with the traveling group, Mary and Joseph searched among relatives and acquaintances for one day. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem. After three days, they found Jesus in the temple among the teachers, listening and asking questions. Those who heard him were amazed at his understanding and answers. Jesus spoke about being in his Father’s house or about his Father’s affairs, but Mary and Joseph did not understand his meaning at that time. He later returned to Nazareth with them, was obedient, and grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and people.

Look closely

What children can notice

Mary and Joseph calmly search among relatives and acquaintances in the traveling group after realizing Jesus is not with them. The scene should communicate concern through focused expressions and gestures rather than fear or danger.

Talk together

Talk about it

  • How do Mary and Joseph respond when they do not find Jesus?
  • What can we learn from Jesus listening and asking questions?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page before discussing Jesus in the temple. Invite children to notice the relatives and acquaintances, describe the calm concern, and keep the sequence clear: one day of searching, then a return to Jerusalem. Remind learners that the Bible does not give invented search dialogue or explain Jesus’ motives here.

Source note

From this passage

Luke 2:43-45 · The Boy Jesus in the Temple

Mary and Joseph calmly search among relatives and acquaintances in the traveling group after realizing Jesus is not with them. The scene should communicate concern through focused expressions and gestures rather than fear or danger.

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