Israel fell into idolatry and infidelity many times in its history. But that is the way with all human beings! The story of Israel is the story of the human soul. Idolatry is putting anything in place of God in our mind and heart. God has always insisted that we worship God and God alone. God must never be in second or third place, but always first. Idolatry brought ruin to the nation, just as it brings ruin to us today. How important is God for you?

Mary and Joseph must have been terrified when they could not find Jesus. All sorts of horrible and nightmarish thoughts must have gone through their minds. Was he still alive? When Mary found Jesus, her fear turned to anger, and she demanded an explanation. Jesus shocked and puzzled them by suggesting that they shouldn't have been looking for him. He was doing God's business, and that came first. He had been confi-dently teaching and debating with senior scholars of the law and tradition. God the Father was definitely first in his life. Mary kept these things in her heart - even though she did not yet understand, she continued to reflect and pray. We cannot always have immediate answers. We must often do likewise - understanding will come with experience and time.