****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
As I began reading this fascinating story of Jesus' early years….. Twelve Birthdays, the Formation of the Messiah, by Terry Todd, I was drawn in to the story through the author’s amazing symbolic narrative.Though the Bible doesn't reveal much about Jesus as a young child through to His age of twelve, the author of this book ties in biblical accounts so wonderfully in a fascinating way to create this excellent read! The characterizations brought insight into the possible origins of Jesus’ parables and provided realistic narratives of sibling rivalries. When faced with dilemmas the young Jesus always made the choice for right rather than wrong that demonstrated His sinless life. The author always portrayed that even as a child Jesus was extremely loving, compassionate, respectful, and inquisitive.One might expect, however, that the boy Jesus, being the Son of God, may have performed a miracle or two (as some others have written). However, Terry Todd, as storyteller, truly shows His pure humanity in every respect so that if He had any supernatural powers, He was unaware of them and certainly did not use them. This book is not without conflict, however; and there are several instances that show cause for Mary and Joseph as well as the rabbis to have great concern for Jesus' wellbeing.This book was so captivating that I read it in three sittings. It gave me a new appreciation for our Savior – how He studied and memorized portions of the Torah and ancient scrolls, inquired of His earthly parents (Mary and Joseph), learned from His deaf Uncle Ezra, and finally grasped the impact of His eventual destiny as He developed His relationship with His Father.Pick it up. I highly recommend it! I’m sure you’ll love this book as much as I did.
