Losing Jesus

Other than Jesus birth we don't tend to know too much about his early life. One of the few glimpses we get is in Luke 2 v 41 - 52.

Jesus family had visited Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover and now they were heading back home to Nazareth. The only problem was that they left Jesus behind by accident. The assumed he was with friends in the larger party and their mistake only came to light when it was time to bed down for the night. A sort or ancient Home Alone movie.

How could they be so daft as not make sure Jesus was not with them.

Yet I've done the same so many times.

I've gone to church without Jesus
I've gone to work without Jesus
I've gone on holiday without Jesus
I've been in Bible College without Jesus
I've gone on mission without Jesus
I've spent my money without Jesus
I've even preached without Jesus

I've assumed Jesus was still around when infact I left him behind and didn't even know it.

Jesus I know that you never leave me. I want to walk with you today and every day and recognize your presence.

Earth’s crammed with heaven,
and every common bush afire with God;
but only he who sees, takes off his shoes,
the rest sit round it and pluck blackberries.

-- Elizabeth Barrett Browning