View source for Paper 127 - The Adolescent Years

From Nordan Symposia

← Paper 127 - The Adolescent Years

You do not have permission to edit this page, for the following reason:

---

You can view and copy the source of this page.

[[Image:lighterstill.jpg]][[File:The_eye_of_all_ur_80px.jpg|right|frame]] ==PAPER 127: THE ADOLESCENT YEARS== 127:0.1 As [[Jesus]] entered upon his [[adolescent]] years, he found himself the head and sole [[support]] of a large [[family]]. Within a few years after his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126#126:2._THE_DEATH_OF_JOSEPH father's death] all their [[property]] was gone. As time passed, he became increasingly [[conscious]] of his pre-existence; at the same time he began more fully to [[realize]] that he was present on [[earth]] and in the [[flesh]] for the [[express]] [[purpose]] of [[revealing]] his [[Paradise Father]] to the children of men. 127:0.2 No [[adolescent]] [[youth]] who has lived or ever will live on this world or any other world has had or ever will have more weighty [[problems]] to resolve or more intricate [[difficulties]] to untangle. No [[youth]] of [[Urantia]] will ever be called upon to pass through more testing [[conflicts]] or more trying situations than [[Jesus]] himself [[endured]] during those strenuous years from fifteen to twenty. 127:0.3 Having thus tasted the [[actual]] [[experience]] of living these [[adolescent]] years on a world beset by [[evil]] and distraught by [[sin]], the Son of Man became [[possessed]] of full [[knowledge]] about the life [[experience]] of the [[youth]] of all the realms of [[Nebadon]], and thus forever he became the [[understanding]] refuge for the distressed and perplexed [[adolescents]] of all ages and on all worlds throughout the [[local universe]]. 127:0.4 Slowly, but certainly and by [[actual]] [[experience]], this [[divine Son]] is earning the right to become [[sovereign]] of his [[universe]], the unquestioned and [[supreme]] ruler of all created [[intelligences]] on all [[local universe]] worlds, the [[understanding]] [[refuge]] of the [[beings]] of all ages and of all [[degrees]] of [[personal]] [[endowment]] and [[experience]]. ==1. THE SIXTEENTH YEAR (A.D. 10)== 127:1.1 The [[incarnated]] [[Creator Son|Son]] passed through [[infancy]] and [[experienced]] an uneventful [[childhood]]. Then he emerged from that testing and trying [[transition]] [[stage]] between [[childhood]] and young manhood—he became the [[adolescent]] [[Jesus]]. 127:1.2 This year he [[attained]] his full [[physical]] [[growth]]. He was a [[virile]] and comely [[youth]]. He became increasingly sober and serious, but he was [[kind]] and [[sympathetic]]. His eye was kind but searching; his smile was always [[engaging]] and reassuring. His [[voice]] was [[musical]] but [[authoritative]]; his greeting cordial but unaffected. Always, even in the most commonplace of [[contacts]], there seemed to be in [[evidence]] the [[touch]] of a [[twofold]] [[nature]], the [[human]] and the [[divine]]. Ever he displayed this combination of the sympathizing [[friend]] and the [[authoritative]] [[teacher]]. And these [[personality]] traits began early to become [[manifest]], even in these [[adolescent]] years. 127:1.3 This [[physically]] strong and robust [[youth]] also acquired the full [[growth]] of his human [[intellect]], not the full [[experience]] of [[human]] [[thinking]] but the fullness of [[capacity]] for such [[intellectual]] [[development]]. He [[possessed]] a [[healthy]] and well-[[proportioned]] [[body]], a keen and [[analytical]] [[mind]], a [[kind]] and [[sympathetic]] disposition, a somewhat fluctuating but [[aggressive]] [[temperament]], all of which were becoming [[organized]] into a strong, striking, and [[attractive]] [[personality]]. 127:1.4 As time went on, it became more [[difficult]] for his [[mother]] and his brothers and sisters to [[understand]] him; they stumbled over his sayings and misinterpreted his [[doings]]. They were all unfitted to [[comprehend]] their eldest [[brother]]'s life because their [[mother]] had given them to [[understand]] that he was [[destined]] to become the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism deliverer of the Jewish people]. After they had received from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] such intimations as [[family]] [[secrets]], [[imagine]] their [[confusion]] when [[Jesus]] would make frank denials of all such [[ideas]] and [[intentions]]. 127:1.5 This year Simon started to school, and they were [[compelled]] to sell another house. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James] now took charge of the teaching of his three sisters, two of whom were old enough to begin serious [[study]]. As soon as Ruth grew up, she was taken in hand by Miriam and Martha. Ordinarily the [[Female|girls]] of [[Jewish]] [[families]] received little [[education]], but [[Jesus]] maintained (and his [[mother]] agreed) that girls should go to school the same as [[Male|boys]], and since the [[synagogue]] [[school]] would not receive them, there was nothing to do but [[conduct]] a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_school home school] especially for them. 127:1.6 Throughout this year [[Jesus]] was closely confined to the [[Carpenter|workbench]]. Fortunately he had plenty of [[work]]; his was of such a superior grade that he was never idle no matter how slack work might be in that region. At times he had so much to do that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James] would help him. 127:1.7 By the end of this year he had just about made up his [[mind]] that he would, after rearing his [[family]] and seeing them [[married]], enter [[publicly]] upon his [[work]] as a [[teacher]] of [[truth]] and as a [[revealer]] of the [[heavenly Father]] to the world. He knew he was not to become the expected [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism Jewish Messiah], and he concluded that it was next to useless to [[discuss]] these matters with his [[mother]]; he decided to allow her to entertain whatever [[ideas]] she might [[choose]] since all he had said in the [[past]] had made little or no impression upon her and he recalled that his [[father]] had never been able to say anything that would change her [[mind]]. From this year on he talked less and less with his [[mother]], or anyone else, about these [[problems]]. His was such a peculiar [[mission]] that no one living on [[earth]] could give him advice concerning its prosecution. 127:1.8 He was a real though [[youthful]] [[father]] to the [[family]]; he spent every possible hour with the [[Children|youngsters]], and they truly loved him. His [[mother]] grieved to see him [[work]] so hard; she sorrowed that he was day by day toiling at the [[carpenter]]'s bench earning a living for the [[family]] instead of being, as they had so fondly [[planned]], at [[Jerusalem]] studying with the [[rabbis]]. While there was much about her son that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] could not [[understand]], she did [[love]] him, and she most thoroughly [[appreciated]] the willing [[manner]] in which he shouldered the [[responsibility]] of the [[home]]. ==127:2. THE SEVENTEENTH YEAR (A.D. 11)== 127:2.1 At about this time there was considerable [[agitation]], especially at [[Jerusalem]] and in [[Judea]], in [[favor]] of [[rebellion]] against the payment of [[taxes]] to [[Rome]]. There was coming into [[existence]] a strong [[nationalist]] party, presently to be called the [[Zealots]]. The Zealots, unlike the [[Pharisees]], were not willing to await the coming of the [[Messiah]]. They proposed to bring things to a head through [[political]] [[revolt]]. 127:2.2 A [[group]] of organizers from [[Jerusalem]] arrived in [[Galilee]] and were making good headway until they reached [[Nazareth]]. When they came to see [[Jesus]], he listened [[carefully]] to them and asked many questions but refused to join the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party party]. He declined fully to disclose his reasons for not enlisting, and his refusal had the [[effect]] of keeping out many of his [[youthful]] fellows in [[Nazareth]]. 127:2.3 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] did her best to induce him to enlist, but she could not budge him. She went so far as to [[intimate]] that his refusal to espouse the [[nationalist]] [[cause]] at her behest was insubordination, a [[violation]] of his [[pledge]] made upon their return from [[Jerusalem]] that he would be subject to his [[parents]]; but in answer to this insinuation he only laid a kindly hand on her shoulder and, looking into her face, said: " My mother, how could you? " And [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] withdrew her [[statement]]. 127:2.4 One of [[Jesus]]' uncles ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s brother Simon) had already joined this [[group]], subsequently becoming an officer in the [[Galilean]] division. And for several years there was something of an [[estrangement]] between Jesus and his uncle. 127:2.5 But trouble began to brew in [[Nazareth]]. [[Jesus]]' [[attitude]] in these matters had resulted in creating a division among the [[Jewish]] [[youths]] of the [[city]]. About half had joined the [[nationalist]] [[organization]], and the other half began the formation of an opposing [[group]] of more moderate [[patriots]], expecting [[Jesus]] to assume the [[leadership]]. They were [[amazed]] when he refused the [[honor]] offered him, pleading as an excuse his heavy [[family]] [[responsibilities]], which they all allowed. But the situation was still further [[complicated]] when, presently, a [[wealthy]] Jew, Isaac, a moneylender to the [[gentiles]], came forward agreeing to [[support]] [[Jesus]]' [[family]] if he would lay down his [[tools]] and assume [[leadership]] of these [[Nazareth]] [[patriots]]. 127:2.6 [[Jesus]], then scarcely seventeen years of age, was [[confronted]] with one of the most delicate and [[difficult]] situations of his early life. [[Patriotic]] issues, especially when [[complicated]] by [[tax]]-gathering foreign [[oppressors]], are always [[difficult]] for [[spiritual]] [[leaders]] to relate themselves to, and it was doubly so in this case since the [[Jewish]] religion was involved in all this [[agitation]] against [[Rome]]. 127:2.7 [[Jesus]]' position was made more [[difficult]] because his [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) mother] and uncle, and even his younger [[brother]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James], all urged him to join the [[nationalist]] cause. All the better [[Jews]] of [[Nazareth]] had enlisted, and those [[young men]] who had not joined the movement would all enlist the moment [[Jesus]] changed his [[mind]]. He had but one [[wise]] [[counselor]] in all [[Nazareth]], his old teacher, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan], who counseled him about his reply to the [[citizens]]' committee of [[Nazareth]] when they came to ask for his answer to the [[public]] appeal which had been made. In all [[Jesus]]' [[young life]] this was the very first time he had consciously resorted to [[public]] [[strategy]]. Theretofore, always had he depended upon a frank [[statement]] of [[truth]] to [[clarify]] the situation, but now he could not [[declare]] the full truth. He could not [[intimate]] that he was more than a man; he could not [[disclose]] his [[idea]] of the [[mission]] which awaited his [[attainment]] of a riper [[Maturity|manhood]]. Despite these [[limitations]] his [[religious]] [[fealty]] and [[national]] [[loyalty]] were directly [[challenged]]. His [[family]] was in a turmoil, his [[youthful]] [[friends]] in division, and the entire [[Jewish]] contingent of the town in a hubbub. And to think that he was to blame for it all! And how innocent he had been of all [[intention]] to make trouble of any kind, much less a disturbance of this sort. 127:2.8 Something had to be done. He must state his position, and this he did [[bravely]] and [[diplomatically]] to the satisfaction of many, but not all. He [[adhered]] to the terms of his [[original]] plea, maintaining that his first [[duty]] was to his [[family]], that a [[widow]]ed [[mother]] and eight brothers and sisters needed something more than mere [[money]] could buy—the [[physical]] [[necessities]] of life—that they were entitled to a [[father]]'s watchcare and [[guidance]], and that he could not in clear conscience release himself from the [[obligation]] which a cruel [[accident]] had thrust upon him. He paid compliment to his [[mother]] and eldest [[brother]] for being willing to release him but reiterated that [[loyalty]] to a dead [[father]] forbade his leaving the [[family]] no matter how much [[money]] was forthcoming for their [[material]] [[support]], making his never-to-be-forgotten [[statement]] that " [[money]] cannot [[love]]. "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Can%27t_Buy_Me_Love] In the [[course]] of this address [[Jesus]] made several veiled [[references]] to his " life [[mission]] " but explained that, regardless of whether or not it might be inconsistent with the [[military]] idea, it, along with everything else in his life, had been given up in order that he might be able to discharge [[faithfully]] his [[obligation]] to his [[family]]. Everyone in [[Nazareth]] well knew he was a [[good]] [[father]] to his [[family]], and this was a matter so near the [[heart]] of every [[noble]] [[Jew]] that [[Jesus]]' plea found an [[appreciative]] response in the hearts of many of his hearers; and some of those who were not thus minded were disarmed by a [[speech]] made by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James], which, while not on the [[program]], was delivered at this time. That very day the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan] had rehearsed James in his speech, but that was their [[secret]]. 127:2.9 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_the_Just James] stated that he was sure [[Jesus]] would help to [[liberate]] his people if he (James) were only old enough to assume [[responsibility]] for the [[family]], and that, if they would only [[consent]] to allow [[Jesus]] to remain " with us, to be our [[father]] and [[teacher]], then you will have not just one [[leader]] from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph]'s [[family]], but presently you will have five [[loyal]] nationalists, for are there not five of us boys to grow up and come forth from our brother-father's [[guidance]] to serve our nation? " And thus did the lad bring to a fairly [[happy]] ending a very tense and threatening situation. 127:2.10 The [[crisis]] for the time being was over, but never was this incident forgotten in [[Nazareth]]. The [[agitation]] persisted; not again was [[Jesus]] in [[universal]] [[favor]]; the division of sentiment was never fully overcome. And this, augmented by other and subsequent occurrences, was one of the chief reasons why he moved to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] in later years. Henceforth [[Nazareth]] maintained a division of sentiment regarding the Son of Man. 127:2.11 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph James] [[graduated]] at school this year and began full-time [[work]] at [[home]] in the [[carpenter]] shop. He had become a clever worker with [[tools]] and now took over the making of yokes and plows while [[Jesus]] began to do more house finishing and expert [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabinet_making cabinet work]. 127:2.12 This year Jesus made great [[progress]] in the [[organization]] of his [[mind]]. [[Gradually]] he had brought his [[divine]] and [[human]] [[natures]] together, and he accomplished all this organization of [[intellect]] by the [[force]] of his own [[decisions]] and with only the aid of his [[indwelling Monitor]], just such a Monitor as all [[normal]] [[mortals]] on all [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:5._POST-BESTOWAL_SON_MAN postbestowal-Son worlds] have within their [[minds]]. So far, nothing [[supernatural]] had happened in this [[young man]]'s [[career]] except the visit of a [[messenger]], dispatched by his [[elder]] [[brother]] [[Immanuel]], who once appeared to him during the night at [[Jerusalem]]. ==127:3. THE EIGHTEENTH YEAR (A.D. 12)== 127:3.1 In the [[course]] of this year all the [[family]] [[property]], except the [[home]] and [[garden]], was disposed of. The last piece of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum] property (except an [[equity]] in one other), already mortgaged, was sold. The proceeds were used for [[taxes]], to buy some new tools for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James], and to make a payment on the old family supply and repair shop near the [[caravan]] lot, which [[Jesus]] now proposed to buy back since James was old enough to [[work]] at the house shop and help [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] about the [[home]]. With the [[financial]] [[pressure]] thus eased for the time being, [[Jesus]] decided to take [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] to the [[Passover]]. They went up to [[Jerusalem]] a day early, to be alone, going by way of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria]. They walked, and [[Jesus]] told James about the historic places en route as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph his father] had taught him on a similar [[journey]] five years before. 127:3.2 In passing through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria], they saw many [[strange]] sights. On this [[journey]] they talked over many of their [[problems]], [[personal]], [[family]], and [[national]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] was a very [[religious]] type of lad, and while he did not fully [[agree]] with his mother regarding the little he knew of the [[plans]] concerning [[Jesus]]' lifework, he did look forward to the time when he would be able to [[assume]] [[responsibility]] for the [[family]] so that [[Jesus]] could begin his mission. He was very [[appreciative]] of Jesus' taking him up to the [[Passover]], and they talked over the [[future]] more fully than ever before. 127:3.3 [[Jesus]] did much [[thinking]] as they [[journeyed]] through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria], particularly at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethel Bethel] and when drinking from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob%27s_Well Jacob's well]. He and his [[brother]] discussed the [[traditions]] of [[Abraham]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac Isaac], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob Jacob]. He did much to [[prepare]] James for what he was about to [[witness]] at [[Jerusalem]], thus seeking to lessen the [[shock]] such as he himself had [[experienced]] on his first [[visit]] to the [[temple]]. But [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] was not so [[sensitive]] to some of these sights. He commented on the perfunctory and heartless [[manner]] in which some of the [[priests]] performed their [[duties]] but on the whole greatly enjoyed his [[sojourn]] at [[Jerusalem]]. 127:3.4 [[Jesus]] took [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] for the [[Passover]] supper. Simon had been laid to rest with his fathers, and [[Jesus]] presided over this household as the head of the Passover [[family]], having brought the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paschal_lamb paschal lamb] from the [[temple]]. 127:3.5 After the [[Passover]] supper [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] sat down to talk with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] while [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], and [[Jesus]] talked together far into the night. The next day they attended the [[temple]] services, and James was received into the [[commonwealth]] of [[Israel]]. That morning, as they paused on the brow of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet] to view [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple], while James exclaimed in [[wonder]], [[Jesus]] gazed on [[Jerusalem]] in [[silence]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] could not [[comprehend]] his [[brother]]'s demeanor. That night they again returned to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany] and would have departed for [[home]] the next day, but James was insistent on their going back to visit the [[temple]], explaining that he wanted to hear the [[teachers]]. And while this was true, [[secretly]] in his [[heart]] he wanted to hear [[Jesus]] [[participate]] in the [[discussions]], as he had heard his [[mother]] tell about. Accordingly, they went to the [[temple]] and heard the [[discussions]], but Jesus asked no questions. It all seemed so puerile and insignificant to this [[awakening]] [[mind]] of man and God—he could only [[pity]] them. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] was [[disappointed]] that [[Jesus]] said nothing. To his [[inquiries]] [[Jesus]] only made reply, " My hour has not yet come. " 127:3.6 The next day they [[journeyed]] [[home]] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_Valley_%28Middle_East%29 Jordan valley], and [[Jesus]] recounted many things by the way, including his former trip over this road when he was thirteen years old. 127:3.7 Upon returning to [[Nazareth]], [[Jesus]] began [[work]] in the old family repair shop and was greatly cheered by being able to meet so many people each day from all parts of the country and surrounding districts. [[Jesus]] truly loved people—just common folks. Each month he made his payments on the shop and, with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James]'s help, continued to [[provide]] for the [[family]]. 127:3.8 Several times a year, when [[visitors]] were not present thus to [[function]], [[Jesus]] continued to read the [[Sabbath]] [[scriptures]] at the [[synagogue]] and many times offered comments on the lesson, but usually he so selected the passages that comment was unnecessary. He was skillful, so arranging the order of the [[reading]] of the various passages that the one would [[illuminate]] the other. He never failed, [[weather]] permitting, to take his brothers and sisters out on [[Sabbath]] afternoons for their [[nature]] strolls. 127:3.9 About this time the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazaon chazan] [[inaugurated]] a young men's club for [[philosophic]] [[discussion]] which met at the [[homes]] of different members and often at his own home, and [[Jesus]] became a prominent member of this [[group]]. By this means he was enabled to regain some of the local [[prestige]] which he had lost at the time of the recent [[nationalistic]] [[controversies]]. 127:3.10 His [[social]] life, while restricted, was not wholly neglected. He had many warm [[friends]] and stanch admirers among both the [[Youth|young men and the young women]] of [[Nazareth]]. 127:3.11 In September, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_(Biblical_person) Elizabeth] and [[John the Baptist|John]] came to visit the [[Nazareth]] [[family]]. John, having lost his father, intended to return to the Judean hills to engage in [[agriculture]] and sheep raising unless [[Jesus]] advised him to remain in [[Nazareth]] to take up [[carpentry]] or some other line of work. They did not know that the [[Nazareth]] [[family]] was practically [[Poverty|penniless]]. The more [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_(Biblical_person) Elizabeth] talked about their sons, the more they became convinced that it would be good for the two young men to [[work]] [[together]] and see more of each other. 127:3.12 [[Jesus]] and [[John the Baptist|John]] had many talks together; and they talked over some very [[intimate]] and [[personal]] matters. When they had finished this [[visit]], they decided not again to see each other until they should meet in their [[public]] [[service]] after " the heavenly Father should call " them to their work. [[John the Baptist|John]] was tremendously impressed by what he saw at [[Nazareth]] that he should return [[home]] and [[labor]] for the [[support]] of his [[mother]]. He became convinced that he was to be a part of [[Jesus]]' life [[mission]], but he saw that [[Jesus]] was to occupy many years with the rearing of his [[family]]; so he was much more content to return to his [[home]] and settle down to the care of their little [[farm]] and to minister to the needs of his [[mother]]. And never again did [[John the Baptist|John]] and [[Jesus]] see each other until that day by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] when the Son of Man presented himself for [[baptism]]. 127:3.13 On Saturday afternoon, December 3, of this year, [[death]] for the second time struck at this [[Nazareth]] [[family]]. Little Amos, their baby [[brother]], died after a week's illness with a high fever. After passing through this time of [[sorrow]] with her first-born son as her only [[support]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] at last and in the fullest sense [[recognized]] [[Jesus]] as the real head of the [[family]]; and he was truly a [[worthy]] head. 127:3.14 For four years their [[standard of living]] had steadily declined; year by year they felt the pinch of increasing [[poverty]]. By the close of this year they faced one of the most [[difficult]] [[experiences]] of all their uphill struggles. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] had not yet begun to earn much, and the expenses of a [[funeral]] on top of everything else staggered them. But [[Jesus]] would only say to his [[anxious]] and [[grieving]] [[mother]]: " [[Mother-Mary]], sorrow will not help us; we are all doing our best, and [[mother]]'s smile, perchance, might even [[inspire]] us to do better. Day by day we are strengthened for these tasks by our [[hope]] of better days ahead. " His sturdy and [[practical]] [[optimism]] was truly [[contagious]]; all the [[children]] lived in an [[atmosphere]] of [[anticipation]] of better times and better things. And this hopeful [[courage]] contributed mightily to the [[development]] of strong and [[noble]] [[characters]], in spite of the depressiveness of their [[poverty]]. 127:3.15 [[Jesus]] [[possessed]] the [[ability]] effectively to mobilize all his [[powers]] of [[mind]], [[soul]], and [[body]] on the task immediately in hand. He could [[concentrate]] his deep-[[thinking]] [[mind]] on the one problem which he wished to solve, and this, in [[connection]] with his untiring [[patience]], enabled him serenely to [[endure]] the [[trials]] of a difficult [[mortal]] [[existence]]—to live as if he were " seeing Him who is invisible. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Letters_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_XI] ==127:4. THE NINETEENTH YEAR (A.D. 13)== 127:4.1 By this time [[Jesus]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] were getting along much better. She regarded him less as a son; he had become to her more a [[father]] to her [[children]]. Each day's life swarmed with [[practical]] and [[immediate]] [[difficulties]]. Less frequently they spoke of his lifework, for, as time passed, all their [[thought]] was mutually [[devoted]] to the [[support]] and upbringing of their [[family]] of four boys and three girls. 127:4.2 By the beginning of this year [[Jesus]] had fully won his [[mother]] to the [[acceptance]] of his [[methods]] of [[Parenting|child training]]—the [[positive]] injunction to do [[good]] in the place of the older [[Jewish]] method of forbidding to do [[evil]]. In his [[home]] and throughout his [[public]]-[[teaching]] [[career]] [[Jesus]] invariably employed the positive form of [[exhortation]]. Always and everywhere did he say, " You shall do this—you ought to do that. " Never did he employ the [[negative]] mode of teaching derived from the [[ancient]] [[taboos]]. He refrained from placing emphasis on [[evil]] by [[forbidding]] it, while he exalted the [[good]] by commanding its [[performance]]. [[Prayer]] time in this household was the occasion for [[discussing]] anything and [[everything]] relating to the welfare of the [[family]]. 127:4.3 [[Jesus]] began [[wise]] [[discipline]] upon his brothers and sisters at such an early age that little or no [[punishment]] was ever required to secure their prompt and wholehearted [[obedience]]. The only [[exception]] was [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jude,_brother_of_Jesus Jude], upon whom on sundry occasions [[Jesus]] found it necessary to impose penalties for his infractions of the rules of the [[home]]. On three occasions when it was deemed [[wise]] to punish Jude for self-confessed and deliberate violations of the [[family]] rules of [[conduct]], his [[punishment]] was fixed by the [[unanimous]] [[decree]] of the older children and was assented to by Jude himself before it was inflicted. 127:4.4 While [[Jesus]] was most [[methodical]] and [[systematic]] in [[everything]] he did, there was also in all his [[administrative]] rulings a refreshing [[elasticity]] of [[interpretation]] and an [[individuality]] of [[adaptation]] that greatly impressed all the [[children]] with the spirit of [[justice]] which actuated their [[father]]-[[brother]]. He never [[arbitrarily]] [[disciplined]] his brothers and sisters, and such [[uniform]] [[fairness]] and [[personal]] [[consideration]] greatly endeared [[Jesus]] to all his [[family]]. 127:4.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_Brother_of_Jesus James] and Simon grew up trying to follow [[Jesus]]' [[plan]] of placating their [[bellicose]] and sometimes [[irate]] playmates by [[persuasion]] and [[nonresistance]], and they were fairly successful; but Joseph and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jude,_brother_of_Jesus Jude], while assenting to such [[teachings]] at [[home]], made haste to [[defend]] themselves when assailed by their [[comrades]]; in particular was Jude [[guilty]] of violating the spirit of these teachings. But [[nonresistance]] was not a rule of the [[family]]. No penalty was attached to the [[violation]] of [[personal]] [[teachings]]. 127:4.6 In general, all of the [[children]], particularly the girls, would consult [[Jesus]] about their childhood troubles and [[Trust|confide]] in him just as they would have in an [[affectionate]] [[father]]. 127:4.7 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James,_brother_of_Jesus James] was growing up to be a well-[[balanced]] and even-tempered [[youth]], but he was not so [[spiritually]] inclined as [[Jesus]]. He was a much better [[student]] than Joseph, who, while a [[faithful]] worker, was even less [[spiritually]] minded. Joseph was a plodder and not up to the [[intellectual]] level of the other [[children]]. Simon was a well-meaning boy but too much of a [[dreamer]]. He was slow in getting settled down in life and was the [[cause]] of considerable [[anxiety]] to [[Jesus]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]. But he was always a [[good]] and well-[[intentioned]] lad. Jude was a firebrand. He had the highest of [[ideals]], but he was unstable in [[temperament]]. He had all and more of his [[mother]]'s [[determination]] and aggressiveness, but he lacked much of her sense of [[proportion]] and [[discretion]]. 127:4.8 Miriam was a well-[[balanced]] and level-headed daughter with a keen [[appreciation]] of things [[noble]] and [[spiritual]]. Martha was slow in [[thought]] and [[action]] but a very dependable and efficient child. Baby Ruth was the sunshine of the [[home]]; though thoughtless of [[speech]], she was most [[sincere]] of [[heart]]. She just about [[worshiped]] her big [[brother]] and [[father]]. But they did not spoil her. She was a [[beautiful]] child but not quite so [[comely]] as Miriam, who was the belle of the [[family]], if not of the [[city]]. 127:4.9 As time passed, [[Jesus]] did much to [[liberalize]] and modify the [[family]] teachings and [[practices]] related to [[Sabbath]] observance and many other [[phases]] of [[religion]], and to all these [[changes]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] gave hearty assent. By this time [[Jesus]] had become the unquestioned head of the house. 127:4.10 This year [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jude_(brother_of_Jesus) Jude] started to [[school]], and it was [[necessary]] for [[Jesus]] to sell his [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harp harp] in order to defray these expenses. Thus disappeared the last of his [[recreational]] [[pleasures]]. He much [[loved]] to [[play]] the harp when tired in [[mind]] and weary in [[body]], but he [[comforted]] himself with the [[thought]] that at least the harp was safe from seizure by the [[tax]] collector. ==127:5. REBECCA, THE DAUGHTER OF EZRA== 127:5.1 Although [[Jesus]] was [[poor]], his [[social standing]] in [[Nazareth]] was in no way impaired. He was one of the foremost [[young men]] of the [[city]] and very highly regarded by most of the young [[women]]. Since [[Jesus]] was such a splendid [[specimen]] of [[robust]] and [[intellectual]] manhood, and considering his [[reputation]] as a [[spiritual]] [[leader]], it was not strange that Rebecca, the eldest daughter of Ezra, a [[wealthy]] merchant and [[trader]] of [[Nazareth]], should [[discover]] that she was slowly falling in [[love]] with this son of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph]. She first confided her [[affection]] to Miriam, [[Jesus]]' sister, and Miriam in turn talked all this over with her [[mother]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] was [[intensely]] aroused. Was she about to lose her son, now become the indispensable head of the [[family]]? Would troubles never cease? What next could happen? And then she paused to [[contemplate]] what [[effect]] [[marriage]] would have upon [[Jesus]]' [[future]] [[career]]; not often, but at least sometimes, did she recall the [[fact]] that Jesus was a " child of promise. " After she and Miriam had talked this matter over, they decided to make an [[effort]] to stop it before [[Jesus]] learned about it, by going direct to Rebecca, laying the whole [[story]] before her, and [[honestly]] telling her about their [[belief]] that [[Jesus]] was a son of [[destiny]]; that he was to become a great religious leader, perhaps [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism the Messiah]. 127:5.2 Rebecca [[listened]] intently; she was thrilled with the [[recital]] and more than ever [[determined]] to cast her lot with this man of her [[choice]] and to [[share]] his [[career]] of [[leadership]]. She [[argued]] (to herself) that such a man would all the more need a [[faithful]] and [[efficient]] [[wife]]. She [[interpreted]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s efforts to dissuade her as a [[natural]] [[reaction]] to the dread of losing the head and sole [[support]] of her [[family]]; but knowing that her [[father]] approved of her [[attraction]] for the [[carpenter]]'s son, she rightly reckoned that he would gladly supply the [[family]] with sufficient income fully to [[compensate]] for the loss of [[Jesus]]' earnings. When her [[father]] agreed to such a [[plan]], Rebecca had further [[conferences]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and Miriam, and when she failed to win their [[support]], she made bold to go directly to [[Jesus]]. This she did with the [[co-operation]] of her [[father]], who invited [[Jesus]] to their home for the [[celebration]] of Rebecca's seventeenth birthday. 127:5.3 [[Jesus]] listened [[attentively]] and [[sympathetically]] to the [[recital]] of these things, first by the [[father]], then by Rebecca herself. He made kindly reply to the [[effect]] that no amount of [[money]] could take the place of his [[obligation]] personally to rear his [[father]]'s [[family]], to " fulfill the most [[sacred]] of all [[human]] trusts—[[loyalty]] to one's own flesh and blood. " Rebecca's [[father]] was deeply [[touch]]ed by [[Jesus]]' [[words]] of [[family]] [[devotion]] and retired from the [[conference]]. His only remark to Mary, his [[wife]], was: " We can't have him for a son; he is too [[noble]] for us. " 127:5.4 Then began that eventful talk with Rebecca. Thus far in his life, [[Jesus]] had made little distinction in his [[association]] with [[Male|boys]] and [[Female|girls]], with young men and young women. His [[mind]] had been altogether too much occupied with the pressing [[problems]] of [[practical]] earthly affairs and the [[intriguing]] [[contemplation]] of his eventual [[career]] " about his Father's business "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2] ever to have given serious [[consideration]] to the consummation of [[personal]] [[love]] in human [[marriage]]. But now he was face to face with another of those [[problems]] which every [[average]] [[human being]] must [[confront]] and [[decide]]. Indeed was he " tested in all points like as you are. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews#The_Letter_to_the_Hebrews.2C_IV] 127:5.5 After [[listening]] [[attentively]], he [[sincerely]] thanked Rebecca for her [[expressed]] [[admiration]], adding, " it shall cheer and [[comfort]] me all the days of my life. " He explained that he was not [[free]] to enter into [[relations]] with any [[woman]] other than those of simple brotherly regard and [[friendship]]. He made it clear that his first and [[paramount]] [[duty]] was the rearing of his [[father]]'s [[family]], that he could not consider [[marriage]] until that was accomplished; and then he added: " If I am a son of [[destiny]], I must not assume [[obligations]] of lifelong duration until such a time as my destiny shall be made [[manifest]]. " 127:5.6 Rebecca was heartbroken. She refused to be [[comforted]] and [[importuned]] her [[father]] to leave [[Nazareth]] until he finally consented to move to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris]. In after years, to the many men who sought her hand in [[marriage]], Rebecca had but one answer. She lived for only one [[purpose]]—to await the hour when this, to her, the greatest man who ever lived would begin his [[career]] as a [[teacher]] of living [[truth]]. And she followed him [[devotedly]] through his eventful years of [[public]] [[labor]], being present (unobserved by [[Jesus]]) that day when he rode triumphantly into [[Jerusalem]]; and she stood " among the other women " by the side of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] on that fateful and [[tragic]] afternoon when the Son of Man [[Crucifixion|hung upon the cross]], to her, as well as to countless worlds on high, " the one altogether lovely and the greatest among ten thousand. " ==127:6. HIS TWENTIETH YEAR (A.D. 14)== 127:6.1 The [[story]] of Rebecca's [[love]] for [[Jesus]] was whispered about [[Nazareth]] and later on at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum], so that, while in the years to follow many [[women]] loved Jesus even as men loved him, not again did he have to reject the [[personal]] proffer of another good [[woman]]'s [[devotion]]. From this time on [[human]] [[affection]] for Jesus partook more of the [[nature]] of [[worshipful]] and adoring regard. Both men and women loved him [[devotedly]] and for what he was, not with any tinge of [[self]]-[[satisfaction]] or [[desire]] for [[affectionate]] [[possession]]. But for many years, whenever the [[story]] of Jesus' human [[personality]] was recited, the [[devotion]] of Rebecca was recounted. 127:6.2 Miriam, knowing fully about the affair of Rebecca and knowing how her [[brother]] had forsaken even the [[love]] of a [[beautiful]] [[maiden]] (not realizing the [[factor]] of his [[future]] [[career]] of [[destiny]]), came to [[idealize]] [[Jesus]] and to [[love]] him with a touching and [[profound]] [[affection]] as for a [[father]] as well as for a [[brother]]. 127:6.3 Although they could hardly afford it, [[Jesus]] had a strange longing to go up to [[Jerusalem]] for the [[Passover]]. His [[mother]], knowing of his recent [[experience]] with Rebecca, [[wisely]] urged him to make the [[journey]]. He was not markedly [[conscious]] of it, but what he most wanted was an [[opportunity]] to talk with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] and to visit with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary]. Next to his own [[family]] he loved these [[three]] most of all. 127:6.4 In making this trip to [[Jerusalem]], he went by way of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megiddo,_Israel Megiddo], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antipatris Antipatris], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lod Lydda], in part covering the same route traversed when he was brought back to [[Nazareth]] on the return from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egypt Egypt]. He spent four days going up to the [[Passover]] and thought much about the [[past]] [[events]] which had transpired in and around [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megiddo,_Israel Megiddo], the international battlefield of [[Palestine]]. 127:6.5 passed on through [[Jerusalem]], only pausing to look upon the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod%27s_Temple temple] and the gathering throngs of visitors. He had a strange and increasing aversion to this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod%27s_Temple#Herod.27s_Temple Herod-built temple] with its [[politically]] appointed [[priesthood]]. He wanted most of all to see [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary]. Lazarus was the same age as [[Jesus]] and now head of the house; by the time of this visit [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s mother had also been laid to rest. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha] was a little over one year older than [[Jesus]], while Mary was two years younger. And [[Jesus]] was the idolized [[ideal]] of all three of them. 127:6.6 On this [[visit]] occurred one of those periodic outbreaks of [[rebellion]] against [[tradition]]—the [[expression]] of resentment for those [[ceremonial]] [[practices]] which [[Jesus]] deemed misrepresentative of [[Universal Father|his Father]] in heaven. Not knowing [[Jesus]] was coming, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] had arranged to celebrate the [[Passover]] with [[friends]] in an adjoining village down the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] road. [[Jesus]] now [[proposed]] that they celebrate the feast where they were, at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s house. " But, " said Lazarus, " we have no [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban_Pesach paschal lamb]. " And then Jesus entered upon a prolonged and convincing [[dissertation]] to the [[effect]] that [[the Father]] in heaven was not truly concerned with such childlike and meaningless [[rituals]]. After solemn and fervent [[prayer]] they rose, and [[Jesus]] said: " Let the childlike and [[darkened]] [[minds]] of my people serve their [[God]] as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] directed; it is better that they do, but let us who have seen the [[light]] of life no longer approach [[our Father]] by the [[darkness]] of [[death]]. Let us be [[free]] in the [[knowledge]] of the [[truth]] of [[our Father]]'s [[eternal]] [[love]]. " 127:6.7 That evening about [[twilight]] these four sat down and partook of the first [[Passover]] feast ever to be [[celebrated]] by [[devout]] [[Jews]] without the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban_Pesach paschal lamb]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unleavened_bread unleavened bread] and the wine had been made ready for this [[Passover]], and these emblems, which [[Jesus]] termed " the bread of life " and " the water of life, " he served to his [[companions]], and they ate in [[solemn]] [[conformity]] with the teachings just imparted. It was his [[custom]] to [[engage]] in this sacramental [[ritual]] whenever he paid subsequent visits to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. When he returned [[home]], he told all this to his [[mother]]. She was [[shocked]] at first but came [[gradually]] to see his [[viewpoint]]; nevertheless, she was greatly relieved when [[Jesus]] assured her that he did not [[intend]] to introduce this new [[idea]] of the [[Passover]] in their [[family]]. At [[home]] with the [[children]] he continued, year by year, to eat the [[Passover]] " according to the law of Moses. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Exodus#Chapter_.12] 127:6.8 It was during this year that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] had a long talk with [[Jesus]] about [[marriage]]. She frankly asked him if he would get married if he were free from his [[family]] [[responsibilities]]. Jesus explained to her that, since immediate [[duty]] forbade his [[marriage]], he had given the subject little [[thought]]. He expressed himself as doubting that he would ever enter the [[marriage]] state; he said that all such things must await " my hour, " the time when " [[our Father|my Father]]'s work must begin. " Having settled already in his [[mind]] that he was not to become the [[father]] of [[children]] in the [[flesh]], he gave very little [[thought]] to the subject of human [[marriage]]. 127:6.9 This year he began anew the task of further weaving his [[mortal]] and [[divine]] [[natures]] into a [[simple]] and [[effective]] human [[individuality]]. And he continued to [[grow]] in [[moral]] [[status]] and [[spiritual]] [[understanding]]. 127:6.10 Although all their [[Nazareth]] [[property]] (except their [[home]]) was gone, this year they received a little [[financial]] help from the sale of an equity in a piece of [[property]] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capernaum Capernaum]. This was the last of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph]'s entire estate. This real estate deal in Capernaum was with a boatbuilder named Zebedee. 127:6.11 Joseph graduated at the [[synagogue]] [[school]] this year and [[prepared]] to begin [[work]] at the small bench in the home [[carpenter]] shop. Although the estate of their [[father]] was exhausted, there were prospects that they would successfully fight off [[poverty]] since three of them were now regularly at [[work]]. 127:6.12 [[Jesus]] is rapidly becoming a man, not just a [[young man]] but an [[Maturity|adult]]. He has learned well to bear [[responsibility]]. He knows how to carry on in the face of [[disappointment]]. He bears up [[bravely]] when his [[plans]] are thwarted and his [[purposes]] temporarily defeated. He has learned how to be [[fair]] and [[just]] even in the face of injustice. He is learning how to [[adjust]] his [[ideals]] of [[spiritual]] living to the [[practical]] demands of [[earthly]] [[existence]]. He is learning how to [[plan]] for the achievement of a higher and distant goal of [[idealism]] while he toils [[earnestly]] for the [[attainment]] of a nearer and [[immediate]] goal of [[necessity]]. He is steadily acquiring the art of [[adjusting]] his [[aspirations]] to the commonplace demands of the human occasion. He has very nearly mastered the [[technique]] of utilizing the [[energy]] of the [[spiritual]] drive to turn the [[mechanism]] of [[material]] [[achievement]]. He is slowly learning how to live the [[heaven]]ly life while he continues on with the [[earth]]ly [[existence]]. More and more he depends upon the [[ultimate]] [[guidance]] of his heavenly Father while he [[assumes]] the [[father]]ly role of guiding and directing the [[children]] of his earth [[family]]. He is becoming [[experienced]] in the [[skill]]ful wresting of victory from the very jaws of defeat; he is learning how to [[transform]] the [[difficulties]] of [[time]] into the triumphs of [[eternity]]. 127:6.13 And so, as the years pass, this [[young man]] of [[Nazareth]] continues to [[experience]] life as it is lived in [[mortal]] [[flesh]] on the worlds of [[time and space]]. He lives a full, [[representative]], and replete life on [[Urantia]]. He left this world ripe in the [[experience]] which his [[creatures]] pass through during the short and strenuous years of their first life, the life in the [[flesh]]. And all this [[human]] [[experience]] is an [[eternal]] [[possession]] of the [[Universe Sovereign]]. He is our [[understanding]] [[brother]], [[sympathetic]] [[friend]], experienced [[sovereign]], and [[merciful]] [[father]]. 127:6.14 As a [[child]] he accumulated a vast body of [[knowledge]]; as a [[youth]] he sorted, [[classified]], and correlated this [[information]]; and now as a man of the realm he begins to [[organize]] these mental possessions [[preparatory]] to utilization in his subsequent [[teaching]], ministry, and [[service]] in behalf of his fellow [[mortals]] on this world and on all other spheres of [[habitation]] throughout the entire [[universe]] of [[Nebadon]]. 127:6.15 Born into the world a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infant babe] of the realm, he has lived his [[childhood]] life and passed through the successive [[stages]] of [[youth]] and young manhood; he now stands on the threshold of full [[Maturity|manhood]], rich in the [[experience]] of human living, replete in the [[understanding]] of [[human]] [[nature]], and full of [[sympathy]] for the frailties of human nature. He is becoming [[expert]] in the divine art of [[revealing]] his [[Paradise Father]] to all ages and [[stages]] of [[mortal]] [[creatures]]. 127:6.16 And now as a full-grown man—an adult of the realm—he [[prepares]] to continue his [[mission]] of [[revealing]] [[God]] to men and leading men to God. <center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_128 Go to Next Paper]</center><center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126 Go to Previous Paper]</center> <center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents Go to Table of Contents]</center> [[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]

Return to Paper 127 - The Adolescent Years.