Jesus Where are You? Losing and Seeking Jesus, Reflection on Luke 2:41-52
Imagine losing your child—now imagine that child is Jesus, God incarnate—and consider how Mary and Joseph’s search for Him reflects our own journeys of rediscovering faith, seeking truth, or finding Jesus for the first time.
Catholic Narcissist Recovery
12/31/20243 min read
Lectio Divina on Gospel Reading Feast of the Holy Family, December 29, 2024: Luke 2, 41-52
Imagine losing your child - where do you go looking for him? This isn’t just any child of course, this is Jesus, God, Emanuel. Mary and Joseph are seeking and looking for Jesus. Isn’t this relatable to times in our life when we have lost touch with our faith and are seeking truth again. Or perhaps we are seeking answers and truth for the first time. How do we find Jesus, where do we find him?
On the Feast of the Holy Family, we reflect on Luke 2:41-52, where Mary and Joseph anxiously search for the child Jesus, only to find Him teaching in the temple. This Gospel invites us to explore themes of trust, surrender, and growth in our spiritual journey, especially in times of confusion or fear.
Like Mary and Joseph, we often seek answers in anxiety or turn to worldly solutions, only to be called back to the Father’s house where true peace resides.
Together, let’s reflect on the importance of surrendering control, trusting in God’s timing, and allowing Him to work in and through our lives—even when we do not fully understand His plans.
Reflection Questions
What word or phrase stands out to you from this Gospel reading, and why?
How do you relate to Mary and Joseph’s anxiety in searching for Jesus?
What does Jesus’ response, “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” reveal about His mission and priorities?How can you, like Mary, “keep all these things in your heart” when you don’t understand God’s plan?
How do the numbers “3” (days searching) and “12” (age of Jesus) resonate with the themes of your spiritual journey?
Actionable Questions for Life Application
In what areas of your life are you “searching anxiously” instead of trusting that Jesus is with you?
How can you redirect your focus from fear to faith when facing challenges?
Like Mary and Joseph, where are you being invited to surrender control and trust God’s plan?
What spiritual practices (e.g., prayer, sacraments, scripture) can help you build your house on solid rock, so you’re less shaken by the attacks of the narcissist or the enemy?
How can you recognize the hidden fruits of healing in your life, even when it feels like nothing is changing?
Group Call Summary
“How is it that you sought me?”
Reflect on the “wrong places” we go to seek peace, such as vices or distractions, and how Jesus calls us back to His Father’s house.
Jesus’ authority reminds us to prioritize God’s presence in our lives over fear or anxiety.
Jesus's mission trumps any other mission, even family pressures or plans
This scripture is also part of the 5th joyful mystery Fruit of the Mystery: Joy in Finding Jesus
Mary’s Example of Faith
Even without full understanding, Mary kept these events in her heart and trusted God. This invites us to embrace mystery and trust in our journey.
Healing in Hidden Ways
Growth often happens inwardly before it’s visible outwardly. The fruits of healing—peace, strength, and forgiveness—will eventually manifest.
Surrender vs. Ego Protection
Healing involves surrendering our need to defend or justify ourselves, allowing
God’s truth and grace to guide us.
Building on Solid Rock
Grounding ourselves in God’s truth (scripture, sacraments, and community) equips us to withstand the attacks of narcissists and the enemy.
Humility and God’s Work Through Us
True healing and evangelization come through humility, allowing God to work through us, even in our brokenness.
The Role of Suffering and Grace
Suffering can open us to receive God’s love and grace. By asking for God’s will to be done, we align ourselves with His plan, trusting that His way leads to ultimate peace.
Practical Support
Surrounding ourselves with a strong community and asking for God’s grace to do His will are essential steps in healing and recovery.
Closing Scripture for Meditation
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
