The Childhood and Youth of Jesus · Part 1 · Chapter 112

A novel surprise at Joseph's house: foreign white-attired youths as helpers in the house. 10 January 1844

01] Rather late in the evening, as Cyrenius left for the city with his people, Joseph said to his sons:

02] "Children, go now, and get our household in order! Take care of the cows and the donkeys, and then prepare supper, one that is good and fresh; for I must adopt and bless my new daughter at a joyful meal today itself!"

03] Hereupon Joseph's sons immediately went and did as their father had ordered.

04] But imagine their surprise when they found several white-attired youths, diligently tending the cows.

05] Joseph's sons asked them who had ordered them to do this and whose servants they were.

06] The youths spoke: "We are the Lord's servants at all times, and the Lord has ordered us to do this work; hence we are doing it!"

07] Joseph's sons asked the youths: "Who is your Lord, and where does he live? Is he by any chance Cyrenius?"

08] And the youths spoke: "Our Lord is also your Lord, who lives with you, – and his name is not Cyrenius!"

09] Joseph's sons then assumed that the youths were referring to their father, and thus spoke to them:

10] "In that case, come with us, so that our father, who is the master of this house, can identify you as his servants!"

11] And the youths spoke: "First milk the cows, and then we will go with you and introduce our Lord to you!"

12] Here the sons took the milk pitcher and milked three times more milk than the usual quantity, even though they had taken similar good care of the cows previously.

13] They were exceedingly astonished and could not explain why the cows gave so much milk this time.

14] When they had finished milking the cows, the youths spoke:

15] "Now, as you have finished your work, let us go into the house, where your and our Lord lives!

16] However, your father has also ordered you to prepare a good supper; this must be ready, before we enter the Lord's chamber!"

17] The youths immediately went into the kitchen, and look, there were several youths busily engaged in the preparation of a delicious evening meal. –

18] However, as Joseph felt that his sons were taking more time than usual to complete their tasks, he went to check what they were doing.

19] But he was astonished to see the kitchen overcrowded with workers!

20] He at once asked his sons what in the Lord's name was happening.

21] The youths replied: "Joseph, do not worry; for everything is and happens only

according to the Lord's will! – However, let us first prepare supper, then you will learn the details from the Lord Himself."