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† The Finding in the Temple. † |
| Here he appears in his divine wisdom as he listens and raises questions, already in effect one who “teaches”. The revelation of his mystery as the Son wholly dedicated to his Father’s affairs proclaims the radical nature of the Gospel, in which even the closest of human relationships are challenged by the absolute demands of the Kingdom. Mary and Joseph, fearful and anxious, “did not understand” his words.
Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 1. Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the Feast, according to the custom. (Luke 2:41, 42) 2. After the Feast was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. (Luke 2:43) 3. They went back to Jerusalem looking for him everywhere. Three days later, they found him in the Temple. (Luke 2:45, 46) 4. He was sitting among the doctors, listening to them, and asking them questions. (Luke 2:46) 5. And all those who heard him were astounded at his intelligence and his replies. (Luke 2:47) 6. My child, why have you done this to us? See how worried your father and I have been, looking for you. (Luke 2:48) 7. Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be busy with my Father’s affairs? (Luke 2:49) 8. But they did not understand what he meant. (Luke 2:50) 9. He then went down with them and came to Nazareth and lived under their authority. (Luke 2:51) 10. And Jesus increased in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and men. (Luke 2:52) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy. Come, Holy Spirit, come by means of the powerful intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, your well-beloved Spouse. O Sacrament, Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, All praise and all thanksgiving, be every moment Thine. |