Gospel: Luke 2:41-52
Every year, the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover, as was customary. And when Jesus was twelve years old, he went up with them, according to the custom of this feast. After the festival was over, they returned, but the boy Jesus remained in Jerusalem; and his parents did not know it.They assumed that he was in their group of travelers, and, after walking the whole day, they looked for him among their relatives and friends. As they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem, searching for him; and, on the third day, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking questions.
And all the people were amazed at his understanding and his answers.His parents were very surprised when they saw him; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I were very worried while searching for you.” Then he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand this answer. Jesus went down with them, returning to Nazareth, and he continued to be obedient to them. As for his mother, she kept all these things in heart.And Jesus increased in wisdom and age, and in divine and human favor.
Lectio Divina
READ: Isaiah proclaims news of great joy: a child is born, whose name is Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Ever lasting Father, Prince of Peace. St. Paul adds another name for this child: he is Jesus the Christ, by whom and in whom we are all made adopted sons and daughters of the Father. Even as a child, Jesus himself acknowledges his true Father.
REFLECT: Loving parents watch out for and protect their children. But there comes a time when children must find their own way. As we grow up, we cling to what is safe and familiar. But at a certain time, we must let go, and heed what the Father is calling is to do and be. We must seek the teachers and guides who can answer our deepest questions. As we grow in wisdom and age, we must seek out the answers that will guide our way.
PRAY: Let us care for the Holy Child, trusting that He will guide us to the Father’s house.
ACT: Where do we find the Father’s house? What questions do we have? What answers do we seek?
© Copyright Bible Diary 2019
