The Third Sorrow of Our Lady - The Child Jesus Lost in the Temple

Scripture Reading:  Luke 2: 41-50~ DRV    41 And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the solemn day of the pasch, 42 And when he was twelve years old, they going up into Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast, 43 And having fulfilled the days, when they returned, the child Jesus remained in Jerusalem; and his parents knew it not. 44 And thinking that he was in the company, they came a day's journey, and sought him among their kinsfolks and acquaintance. 45 And not finding him, they returned into Jerusalem, seeking him.
    46 And it came to pass, that, after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions. 47 And all that heard him were astonished at his wisdom and his answers. 48 And seeing him, they wondered. And his mother said to him: Son, why hast thou done so to us? behold thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. 49 And he said to them: How is it that you sought me? did you not know, that I must be about my father's business? 50 And they understood not the word that he spoke unto them.                               

Meditation:    Dear Mary, you felt the panic all mothers experience if, even for an instant, a child's whereabouts is unknown.  Today, my loved one is lost in a world of confusion and doubt.   May my prayers touch the heart of God and help my prodigal find the Truth.  May the time come quickly when I can say with joy, "The one for whom I have prayed has come home."  I make this prayer In Jesus' Name.  Amen.            

Prayer:  Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you.  Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.  Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death.  Amen.

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