The passage illustrates the importance of being a beacon of light in dim, dark places, as guided by Luke 11:33-36. One must not let comfort lead to dulled awareness, but instead consciously illuminate one's environment. It urges self-reflection on how one's personal light can lead others towards embracing Jesus.

I have been lost a time or two. Usually, because I got distracted and wandered off the intended path. Whatever sparked my interest was enough to cause me to lose sight of my intended destination. In this passage, we find Jesus as a child, so focused on His Father’s business that he wanders off from his parents. In my own life, I’ve found that I’m not prone to wander towards my father’s business….but away from it.

As a child, nothing compared to the excitement of being able to sit up and waiting for New Year's Day. We’d sit up as long as possible on December 31st awaiting the coming year. We knew what was coming, yet we had to watch the clock or we’d miss it. In this passage, Jesus reminds us of the signs before his second coming. He teaches that in order to recognize the second coming, we must stay alert. These verses prompt us to be mindful of the state of our hearts and to stay ready at all times for the coming day of God’s judgment. REFLECTION - Do you find yourself growing weary in your walk with the Lord? How can you stay encouraged and ready for Jesus Christ's second coming?