Why did Mary and Joseph present Jesus at the temple? Luke 2:22 says, “When the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” This ceremony, something that Jewish families did at that time, was a ceremony of redemption. It acknowledged God's ownership of Israel's firstborn. Joseph and Mary paid the redemption price, fulfilling the law's requirement. This act demonstrated their obedience and dedication, recognizing that Jesus belonged to God in a unique way. Even as a baby, Jesus’ life fulfilled prophecy and pointed to His ultimate mission as the Redeemer of humanity.