The finding of Jesus in the Temple Luke 2:41-52
Imaginative Contemplation
I came to visit Mary a few days after her return from Jerusalem. She was quieter than usual. I asked her how the journey had been. Then the story tumbled out…
‘The outward journey was fine. Jesus travelled with me, probably for the last time, as he would celebrate his Bar Mitzva in the Holy City in a few days’ time. We enjoyed the company and the country through which we travelled. The smell of the country is always so much sweeter than what we find in our villages. We arrived in good spirits, and the next day made our way to the Temple. Jesus, now formally an adult, seemed excited and fully engaged with all the religious ceremonies. The days passed quickly, and soon it was time to return home. We set out in caravan fashion, the men moving off first to ensure a safe passage. We left some time later.
As we set out, I looked for Jesus who was always ready to move before we were. I didn’t see him go off with Joseph, but when he wasn’t around when we were ready to go, I presumed that he was with the men. I felt a sadness that he was growing up so fast. How long would he remain with us? And what would the future hold for him? I had some bad memories of what Simeon had told me some twelve years ago haunted me now.
I did not enjoy this first day’s journey, but I reassured myself that of course, Jesus, now officially a man, had chosen to travel with Joseph.
When the two parties came together in the evening, I ran to meet Joseph. But he was alone! Where was Jesus? We both asked the question at the same time. Panic swept over me, and I could see Joseph’s deep anxiety. We asked all our friends if they had seen Jesus, but none had.
We knew that we would have to return to Jerusalem to look for our son who had never wandered off like this in his life.
The next two days were horrible. Searching, calling, aching, desperate, we clung to each other, trying to assuage the growing sense of terror and foreboding that was engulfing us.
On the third day, I said to Joseph, ‘Perhaps he stayed in the Temple. He was really engaged there the other day.’ So we made our way up the hill to where the Temple towered over the city. As we entered, I grabbed Joseph’s arm. ‘That’s Jesus’ voice! What on earth is he doing here?’ entering the Hall, we saw Jesus engaging with the Elders. ‘Jesus, what are you doing here? We have been so worried about you, searching for you everywhere!’ And then he answered - I couldn’t believe my ears- ‘Didn’t you know that I had to be in my Father’s house?’ He looked bewildered. So did we. We just could not understand each other. Then Joseph said, ‘Son, you have caused enough trouble. You are coming home with us! Now!’
We didn’t talk much on the way home. I think we still have a lot to discuss, but I don’t think we are ready for that right now.
Mary sat down, looking exhausted. I gave her a long hug as she cried tears of relief that she had her son back again, safe and sound.
God’s ways are not our ways, nor our thoughts his.
Enter into the scene
I have been listening to Simeon, but am now aware that
Anna, that lovely elderly lady, is hurrying across to see this special family. I am not surprised. Anna, the holy one, would have picked up that there is something very special here.
Anna does not hold the child. It is a bit difficult when you are using a walking stick to hold anything safely. But she reinforces what Simeon has said.
I look around. Some people are making fun of her. ‘Silly old fool! What does she know?’ Others have looked across at our little group and wondered that Anna was so deep in conversation with these people who were obviously visitors to Jerusalem.
Anna and Simeon remind me of my grand -parents, both of whom have died. Their kindness, wisdom and generosity are evident. I am so grateful for the older people in my life. They have helped me to recognise the value of our older people. I feel sorry for those who have no elders in their circle of friends. They are missing so much of the history and the wisdom upon which the future relies.
As the family moved out of the Temple, I turned back to my work of helping the other visitors find their way around this busy place. But I will never forget the impression that family of three made on me that day.
I am praying for this family that it may grow into a hope-filled future.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
Until the age of twelve, Jesus was a child. At the age of twelve, boys underwent the Bar Mitzva ceremony which ushered them into adulthood.
It was customary for women and men to travel separately. The children usually travelled with the women. This was probably why Mary and Joseph did not miss Jesus until the evening of the first day’s homeward journey.
· How do you think Mary felt travelling home without Jesus for the first time?
· How do you think Joseph felt that Jesus had not chosen to travel home with him?
· How do you think Mary and Joseph reacted when they realised that Jesus was not with them?
· How did they plan to search for Jesus?
· How did they react to Jesus’ statement?
· What did Mary ponder in her heart?
· Imagine how the boy Jesus grew up into adulthood.
Prayer
Lord, your ways are not our ways. Help me to recognise yur guidance in my life. Increase my trust in you. Amen.