Luke 2:41-52
I am a parent and I have a lot of experience working with kids. And whether it was a chaperone on a second field trip or a Girl Scout leader at an event, I’ve gotten good at counting the kids. That is rule #1 when working with kids—know where they are at all times. There’s nothing worse than doing the routine headcount, expecting to find 10 kids, and coming up 1 short. Maybe you who are parents or grandparents, teachers, coaches or event chaperones can relate to that heart-wrenching fear that grips you when you turn your head for a second and lose a child you’re supposed to be keeping track of.
That’s how this gospel story today begins. Jesus is 12 years old, and on the annual trip with his parents to Jerusalem for what was supposed to be a routine holiday trip. On the trip back from Jerusalem, Mary can’t find Jesus. After three days since they’d been in direct contact with Jesus, Mary and Joseph go back to the temple in Jerusalem. Sure enough, there he is…sitting in the temple. I love how Jesus responds to his parents. He doesn’t defend himself. He simply says, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”
Today, perhaps it is as surprising when we find Jesus not just with children, but IN children, or not just with those who are poor and oppressed, but IN those who are poor and oppressed. Instead of always looking for Jesus where it makes sense, let Jesus surprise you by showing up in places that don’t make sense. Let Jesus surprise you when he shows up in the midst of suffering and grief. Let Jesus surprise you when he shows up in the wisdom of a 12-yr old, or even a 3-yr old. Let Jesus surprise you when he shows up where you would not expect him to be.
Questions for Reflection:
- Where have you found Jesus recently? Was it a surprise?
Prayer:
Gracious God,
Thank you for helping us to see your good works in many different ways. Continue to open up our lives to the possibilities of your grace. We ask you to lead us kindly, and show us how to live graciously. Amen.
Login To Leave Comment