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February 19th: Jesus Among the Doctors
If we had been asked what would be the occupation
of the Son of God in the Temple of His
Father, we certainly should not have expected it
to be to sit at the feet of those human teachers
whose puny knowledge was but as a drop of water
compared with the ocean of His Divine Wisdom,
and who were indebted to Him for all that they
knew. Yet He listened to them, as a learner to his
masters, in order that He who came to be our
Example in all things, might teach the young to
show deference to the old, and all to sit humbly
at the feet of those whom God has appointed to
instruct and teach others His holy law. What nonsense were the wisest sayings of these doctors, compared with even the human and acquired knowledge of the Boy who listened to them. Yet He showed no impatience, did not correct their imperfect utterances, did not even criticize what they said, but received with the reverence due to their age, their position, and their sacred office. Is this my spirit when I listen to those who are my appointed teachers, or do I criticize and find fault? Jesus also asked questions of the Jewish doctors. This too was to instruct us. We should learn from Him to be eager and anxious for information on heavenly things. He who knew all things in Heaven and earth, needed no instruction, but we who are full of ignorance are liable to have our usefulness marred by our want of knowledge. We should lose no opportunity of seeking and searching, in order to supply our countless deficiencies.
Music: The Shepherds' Farewell
from L' Enfance du Christ Op. 25 by Hector Berlioz
1. Thou must leave Thy lowly dwelling,
The humble crib, the stable bare. Babe, all mortal babes excelling, Content our earthly lot to share. Loving father, Loving mother, Shelter Thee with tender care! 2. Blessed Jesus, we implore Thee With humble love and holy fear. In the land that lies before Thee, Forget not us who linger here! May the shepherd's lowly calling, Ever to Thy heart be dear! 3. Blest are ye beyond all measure, Thou happy father, mother mild! Guard ye well your heav'nly treasure, The Prince of Peace, The Holy Child! God go with you, God protect you, Guide you safely through the wild! |