A Mother's Treasure

A Rare Look

In the Gospel of Luke we are granted a rare view through the window into the childhood of Jesus Christ. It is after the account of Jesus, as a boy of twelve, being “misplaced” for a time in the Temple that a curious reference is found. Luke describes how, as Jesus continued to grow in the house of His parents in Nazareth, “His mother treasured all these things in her heart” (2:51, NASU). What “things” exactly were treasured by Mary as the child Jesus grew to become a man, “increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (2:52)?

A Unique Child

Early life

Mary was undoubtedly aware of the unique nature of her first child, largely influenced by the events surrounding both Jesus’ conception and birth. An angel declared Mary to be “favored” (Luke 1:28) and that Jesus would usher in a great events for God (1:32, 33). The virgin birth and later flight to Egypt would only emphasize the unique character of her Son Jesus.

Adulthood

As Jesus began His earthly ministry by declaring His coming to earth being the fulfillment of Scripture (Luke 4:21), the reaction of His hometown of Nazareth was attempted murder (4:29). Later, Jesus’ own half-brothers, most likely aware of the events surrounding His birth choose to not believe in Him (John 7:5). Although, at least two of these men (James and Jude) would later choose to be followers of Christ, this could not have been a pleasant thing for a mother to hear.

His death

At Jesus’ crucifixion, as His earthly time was quickly fading away, His mother stood nearby and watched His pain and agony. Were these the type of “things” Mary treasured? Probably not. These are the events of Jesus Christ remembered by His followers because of His purpose on this earth. It is important to remember, however, that Jesus was indeed once a child and it would probably be these memories that Mary would long remember; the very “treasures” she kept hidden away in her heart. These were treasures she did not hold alone, either.

A Good Son

In the midst of excruciating pain, sorrow, and fatigue while hanging upon the cross, Jesus Christ still remembered His earthly mother. When His mind could be focused elsewhere, He called out to His dear friend John and made sure that His mother Mary would be cared for (John 19:27). What else but Mary’s treasure could cause such love of a Son? What else but a perfect Son could bring such treasures to Mary? By including this rare view through the window into the heart of Mary, we are allowed to see some of Jesus’ humanity through the eyes of someone who knew Him best: His own mother.