In My Father’s House

Key Bible Passage:

And [Jesus] said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49) 

Reflect:

Have you ever lost track of someone you’re supposed to be responsible for? Frightening! Today’s Christmas story tells of twelve-year-old Jesus getting “lost” in Jerusalem.

Every faithful Jewish family traveled to Jerusalem annually for the great feasts of worship, usually in large caravans. We wouldn’t expect a twelve-year-old to walk alongside his parents; he’d likely be with the youth. But when the caravan stopped to make camp that evening, there was no sign of Jesus!

Imagine Mary and Joseph’s heart-stopping panic. Every military family knows the hardship of separation, but nothing, nothing, compares with the fear of losing a child. An immediate return to Jerusalem was impossible–the roads were unsafe at night. Finally, “after three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions” (Luke 2:46).

Three days! Poor Mary!

The teachers were “amazed at his understanding and his answers.” Mary and Joseph were “astonished.”

God continues to astonish each of us, often in ways we don’t expect or desire. He teaches our children through us, but He also teaches us through our children! Once again, we’re told Mary treasured up all these things in her heart. Mary was clearly a woman who meditated on God’s lessons!

Let’s ask Jesus to amaze us through his answers in the Bible. And let’s continue to treasure up and ponder the astonishing answers to life we are given through Jesus.

Respond: 

• Conversation Starter: What does it mean today “to be in my Father’s house” or “about my Father’s business?” As Christians, we have the Spirit of God living within us. In a very real sense, we are always part of the family business.