Daily Gospel Reflection for June 8, 2024

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 2:41-51

Perhaps you’ve known that feeling of terror that strikes a parent when a child inexplicably wanders off. Maybe you were in a store or a ballpark when it happened—one minute the boy or girl is by your side, the next he or she is gone. It is a particularly painful experience, thinking that your child has disappeared. The anxiety, frustration, and insecurity can seem overwhelming.

As a result, many of us can relate to Mary’s consternation as she searched for the missing Jesus. Imagine spending three whole days trying to find your lost child. Yet, Mary was diligent and brave, accepting her cross with dignity.

And then, imagine Mary’s reaction when she discovered Jesus in the Temple. Scripture tells us that Mary and Joseph were astonished. They must have been elated to have found Jesus. And yet, Mary also expresses puzzlement at the situation.

Jesus responds with questions for his mother and foster-father—questions which Mary ponders in her heart.

“Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” Jesus asks.

He is, after all, no ordinary boy, but the Son of God made man. It can be easy for us to become confused by the Lord’s actions, especially when it seems that He has engaged in a “disappearing act.” Have you ever wondered where Jesus is—and when He is going to show up in your life?

The Finding of Jesus in the Temple shows us that Christ is constantly at work—whether we realize it or not. He often acts behind the scenes. Just when we might think all is lost, we rediscover Him in our life. May we, like Mary, ponder these things in our heart, knowing that the Lord loves us completely and that His love can sustain us through trying times.

Ponder:

In what ways am I waiting for the Lord to appear in my life?

Pray:

Dearest Jesus, You are always about Your Father’s work. Please give me the grace to overcome my doubts and to trust in You.

Copyright 2024 Maria V. Gallagher