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.
Reflect
I have spent much of my adult life living in Washington, DC. One of the great things about
living in a world capital is that most nations have embassies in the city. I can attend various
events at these embassies and sometimes even meet the ambassadors. Ambassadors play
many roles. They represent their countries at various events. They negotiate to make sure
that their country’s interests are protected. They help people learn about the country
they represent and provide assistance to their citizens who live abroad.
Paul calls us to be ambassadors for Christ. What might that look like? Our lives and witness
may be some people’s introduction to the Gospel. Is our witness faithful and true? Do we
speak of our faith with those we meet, extending invitations to pray, study, worship, and serve
together? Do we reach out to assist and advocate for our brothers and sisters in need?
We may not have a fancy embassy to live in, but we can be faithful ambassadors of the
kingdom of God.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023