December Eleventh

Jesus in the Temple

 "And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom:

 and the grace of God was upon him. Now 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 after the custom of the feast. 

And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned,

 the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.

 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; 

and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.

 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem,

 seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, 

sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, 

and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished

 at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, 

they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, 

Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have 

sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me?

 Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? 

And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. 

And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: 

but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. 

And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."

-Luke 2:40-52

LIGHT

There was once a shining Christmas Tree 

standing out where all could see. 

Its brilliance captured every eye,

 and seemed to cheer each passer-by.

 "The lights are beautiful," 

they’d say and hesitate to walk away.

 The tree stood proud, ablaze with light,

 for each bulb kept burning bright. 

Then one bulb was heard to say, 

"I’m tired of burning night and day:

 I think I’ll just go out and rest

 for I’m too tired to do my best. 

Besides I know I am so small

 I doubt I would be missed at all." 

Then a child lovingly touched the light.

 "Look mother, this one shines so bright.

 Of all the lights on the tree, 

this one looks the best to me."

 "Oh my goodness," said the light,

 I almost dimmed right out of sight.

 I thought perhaps no one would care

 if I failed to shine my share.

 And with that glowing brilliance came, 

for all the lights had felt the same. 

Life is like this tree. 

The little lights are you and me. 

Each of us has a space to fill with love,

 learning, and good will.

 Let’s keep our tree ablaze with light

 and the spirit of Christ burning bright.

 For Life is living tree, 

helping us be the best we can be.

Recommended Song: O Come All Ye Faithful