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There is a pious legend that St. Luke, an artist as he was, painted several pictures of Jesus and Mary; however this may be, we know at any rate that he drew some lovely pictures of the youth of Jesus, and of the Holy Family in which he dwelt.

I. THE DOMESTIC VIRTUES OF THE HOLY FAMILY.

1. Fear of God. This was manifested by their journey to Jerusalem, made by Mary the tender Virgin, though not required by law, and by Jesus hardly yet bound by law. An admonition to Christian families not to stay away from public worship.

2. Their activity.

(1)  Joseph was a carpenter, and supported the Holy Family by handiwork. Mary managed the household. Jesus assisted both of them.

(2)  They were united in their daily works. Co-operation.

3. Peacefulness and meekness.

II. THE CHARACTERISTIC VIRTUES OF THE INDIVIDUALS COMPOSING THE HOLY FAMILY.

1. Joseph. An Israelite indeed, in whom was no guile; a model to all.

(1)  His willingness to yield to God's arrangements. Protection of Mary. Flight into Egypt.

(2)  His loving care of Jesus and Mary.

2. Mary. Full of grace; a model to all women.

(1)  Her innocence, resignation, humility.

(2)  Her discretion and love of retirement.

3. Jesus is your model, ye sons and daughters.

(1)  His conduct at the Temple school. He manifested His knowledge, but without ostentation.

(2)  His obedience. This is the touchstone of the inner value of a child, and the path to wisdom and happiness.

(3)  His growth in wisdom and grace.

(Weinzierl.)

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KJV: And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

WEB: They didn't understand the saying which he spoke to them.