and his mother kept all these things in her heart.
It is to our benefit to reflect on everything that Jesus does in our lives. It is even helpful to consider the things which he permits without directly causing. Even if we don't understand them or if they cause us anxiety we should still follow this example of Mary. We learn to trust that Jesus is in his Father's house, about his Father's business. Even times when we perceive the absence of Jesus are worth bringing to prayer. Rather than ignoring them or pretending they don't happen we need to learn to see them from God's perspective. He permits them for our growth.
After three days they found him in the temple
Jesus shows us this by allowing Mary and Joseph to wonder where he is. His point is not to cause them pain. His point is to be in the temple about his Father's business. But it does cause them anxiety. He allows them to endure it so they can learn to recognize the greater purpose in his actions. This three days prepares Mary to keep hope alive during the cross and burial of her son.
The Immaculate Heart teaches us to turn experienced pain into prayer and love and trust. This is what we need to "be self-possessed in all circumstances". We can "put up with hardship" better when we know it is part of a bigger plan. We can preach in season and out of season when we see that there is a reason God allows there to be an off season at all.
For I am already being poured out like a libation,
and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well;
I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.
To give our all as Paul gives it seems too much for us. But we do not start there. We start by imitating the heart of Mary. As we do, we are more and more able to persist even unto the crown of righteousness.
O God, you have taught me from my youth,
and till the present I proclaim your wondrous deeds.
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