The Rosary Dad

Gospel Reading: Matthew 1:18-24 (RSV-2CE)

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel’ (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.”

Reflection

On the third day of Simbang Gabi, the Gospel invites us into the quiet obedience of Saint Joseph. Upon learning that Mary, his betrothed, was pregnant, Joseph, a just man, faced a difficult decision. But when an angel appeared to him in a dream, Joseph responded with faith and trust in God’s plan. He took Mary into his home, embracing the role given to him as the earthly father of Jesus.

Joseph’s response is a powerful lesson in trust and obedience. He didn’t fully understand what was happening, but he trusted in God’s word and acted faithfully. His willingness to step into the unknown allowed God’s plan of salvation to unfold.

This Advent, we are called to imitate Joseph’s quiet strength and trust in God’s guidance, even when faced with uncertainty. Just as Joseph was chosen to care for and protect the Holy Family, we are called to open our hearts to the coming of Christ and to trust in God’s plan for our lives, no matter how mysterious it may seem.

Reflection Question:
How can I trust God’s plan for me, especially when it feels uncertain or unclear?