After three days they found him

"After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions, and all who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers.” (Luke 2:46) 

Reflection

This would not be the last time Mary waited three days before finding the real story about her Son.  Later in life, she would encourage his “coming out” at Cana, where He begins public ministry.  Even later, Mary and the disciples would wait another three day period for Jesus to “come out” again – this time as the Risen Lord.  Faith provides Christians with two gifts: 1) patience as we wait the three days – or however long that period in the tomb may be, and 2) spiritual insight into the new reality revealed – a clearer understanding of God’s plan for us.

So, as we contemplate the meaning of Christmas for our own lives, we take away these lessons: in the coming year, the human Jesus will show us how to be patient with the dark times of being lost.  He will also reveal to us (in His time) the Resurrection, the new life, a finding Him in a new light.  This new light often comes after a time of contemplation and patient prayer.  As “his mother kept all these things in her heart,” she waited for Jesus to advance in wisdom and favor through obedience to God’s greater plan.

May you be blessed with such Faith.