The commemoration is over; the history of my life has been compressed into a few weeks, and what I suffered and endured and overcame with the love of my father has been told. Now what does it all mean for you?

It is a story from which you and others learn the great value of your life when you choose to follow and imitate me in your life and adopt my words and actions according to your ability and means. Your existence in the world into which you were born and from which you will depart one day will have purpose, meaning, and value. Your life and work helping others will be your legacy to inspire and motivate many others. Above all, when you adopt my advice and reflect on my story, you will understand yourself more, and you will realize your own value and self-worth.

When I was a boy, I visited Jerusalem for the first time, and I went to the Temple. I was about 12, and I knew that my loving father would give me enlightenment, and more knowledge would come to me because I trusted in that great power of God’s love and care for me. I was able to have self-confidence and self-control, to live my own life with freedom and purpose.

I knew his love was with me and his power was carrying me along. I felt I could achieve anything. I had no formal training in the scriptures, yet I was not intimidated by the authorities, or scribes and teachers of the law in the temple that discussed and debated the Law of Moses and the prophets. I knew I was God’s friend and that I was equal to all others. I spoke what I knew without fear or shyness.

I was able to understand the scriptures I had heard in the synagogue in Nazareth, and I explained my thoughts and insights. They were amazed and astounded that a 12-year-old could know so much and could talk about it.

You too will have greater self-confidence and knowledge. You will have no fear because you trust in me and will be my friend, and you will know that I am with you.

Come again, and we will share more knowledge and advice, Jesus.