Jesus had Four Brothers

By Mary Vee
Luke 2

From Mary's Notes

My name is Mary. I never expected the blessings God has given to me. What girl would expect an angel to appear and tell her she would have a child who would save people from their sins--when she'd never been with a man? And that this child would be God's Son? No girl ever had. And because He was God's only Son no girl ever would after me. 

Since that moment, nearly every day has brought surprises. I didn't expect the responsibility. What mother wouldn't be shocked and upset to find her child missing? But then, find him in the temple talking with the priests and Rabbi's, understanding their questions that went beyond the typical Bar Mitzvah questions.

So much has happened that has cause me to ponder and think about God.

Since Jesus' birth, God has blessed Joseph and me with children. We had four sons, James, Joses, Jude, and Simon. We also had daughters.

Our family lived in Nazareth. Joseph worked hard as a carpenter. He provided for our family, and we had what we needed. He trained our sons to carry on his work as a carpenter. 

A lot happened during the eighteen years after Jesus' Bar Mitzvah. Since He was the oldest, the duty fell on him to support us when Joseph was gone. Jesus worked hard. The people liked Him and His work. He listened to people, really listened to what was said then always had the right words to say back. 

His brothers didn't see Jesus as I did and their mean words hurt me. I hope and pray that God will help James, Joses, Jude, and Simon to one day understand who Jesus really is.

Living in Nazareth is a safe place to raise a family. Our town is nestled in the mountains, away from trading routes. The issues with politics and the Romans rarely reach our small community, which has kept us safe. I am so glad we live here. It is a good home to raise a family.

Come back for the next story.

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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary

* Jewish History.org
*Jewish Virtual Library.org

My research in Israel.