His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
—From Luke 2:41–52 (NKJV)

“Jesus’s words will remind us that he is there, we have only to look in the right place.”

— The Joy of Advent

Reflection

Today (tonight, specifically) is 12th night, the eve of Epiphany. While a few traditions celebrate with a seven-day fast followed by a great feast, many others see Twelfth Night as a time of revelry and games. This celebration is especially festive because tomorrow’s Epiphany was the traditional day of removing all Christmas decorations—signifying the season of Christmas is now over. Celebrate by hosting a 12th Night Party, playing gentle, good-natured pranks on loved ones, playing board games with family, or having a White Elephant Gift Exchange. Or host a watch party for Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night while your King’s Cake (below) bakes. Consider how Jesus’s first public miracle was not one of healing or mercy—it involved turning water into wine, at a wedding party.

Celebrate Together

Gather the family for today’s Celebration in our book, The Joy of Advent. Delve into the wonder of God dwelling with us in our human experience, explore the Jesse Tree symbol for finding Jesus in the temple, discover the history behind today’s carol, and enjoy a family conversation (or private journaling) about where and how to seek Jesus.

Today’s Jesse Tree Symbol:
A **Temple** reminds us of our Father’s house.

Inspiration

Jesus in the Temple

Heinrich Hofmann (1824–1911). The very presence of God.

Music

As you enjoy Hark, the Herald Angles Sing, reflect on the joy of the season! [Play Video]

Enjoy this new Christmas classic and consider what you would do, If I Were There. [Play Video]

Prayer

Holy Spirit, powerful Consoler, sacred Bond of the Father and the Son, Hope of the afflicted, descend into my heart and establish in it your loving dominion. Enkindle in my tepid soul the fire of your Love so that I may be wholly subject to you. We believe that when you dwell in us, you also prepare a dwelling for the Father and the Son. Deign, therefore, to come to me, Consoler of abandoned souls, and Protector of the needy. Help the afflicted, strengthen the weak, and support the wavering. Come and purify me. Let no evil desire take possession of me. You love the humble and resist the proud. Come to me, glory of the living, and hope of the dying. Lead me by your grace that I may always be pleasing to you. Amen.

St. Augustine (354–430)

Resources

Bake a traditional King’s Cake to celebrate Epiphany.
Enjoy a printable coloring page of Jesus in the Temple.
Would you like to make Jesse Tree ornaments to accompany your readings? Find tutorials and ideas from simple to advanced at our Jesse Tree Ornaments Pinterest board.

Recent Resources from Joy of Advent