Gospel: Luke 2:41-51
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 her heart.
Reflection
His mission was to fulfill the Father’s will.
When Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the temple, he gently asks, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” The last phrase can also be translated as, “Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s work?” Even at a young age, Jesus deeply understood his purpose and identity, knowing his mission was to fulfill the Father’s will.
We Christians are called to share in this commitment—to engage in our Father's work. Our lives should reflect a desire to seek God's will, serve His purposes, and spread His love. Just as Jesus was devoted to the Father’s mission, we are invited to prioritize God's work every day, embodying the Gospel values of truth, reconciliation, and love. Let us not be distracted by worldly pursuits but strive to live faithfully, knowing that our true calling is to continue the mission of the Lord Jesus and immerse ourselves in our Father’s work wherever He places us.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2026