Luke 2:41-52
The parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to be in the group they went a day’s journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. After three days they found him in the Temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, ‘Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.’ And he said to them, ‘Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?’ And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favour with God and man.
Reflection
‘The most beautiful thing which emerges from the word of God today is that the whole family goes on pilgrimage. Fathers, mothers and children together go to the house of the Lord, in order to sanctify the holy day with prayer. It is an important teaching, which is meant for our own families as well. Indeed, we could say that family life is a series of pilgrimages, both small and big.’ – Pope Francis
Prayer
God-With-Us, you give us the gift of others with whom we can walk on this journey of life. Bless us, our families and the people we love, and help us to journey together in faith. Help us to give the gifts of listening, of forgiveness, and of grace: always slow to anger; patient and kind with one another, so that together, we may walk in your light. Amen.
The Gifts of Christmas
The best gifts can’t be wrapped! Adapted from an original Ten Gifts of Christmas by Sister Margaret Schweiss, we suggest offering one of these special gifts to someone in your life who would benefit from them, each day of the Christmas Octave.
The gift of a game
The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us to treasure time spent with our loved ones. Most people have at least one game they like to play, whether it is tennis, golf, cards, chess, or scrabble! Offer to play your loved one’s favourite game with them. Even if you lose, you’ll be a winner, because together you will have shared an experience.





