“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.” – Matthew 1:20
Reflecting on today’s gospel, two words come to mind; the Xaverian values of Trust and Faith. Both are, I believe, a good part why Saint Joseph is an important patron of the Xaverian Brothers. During Advent, our attention is drawn mostly to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. We hear little about Joseph. Yet, here, Joseph’s trust and faith in God is clear. He learns Mary, his betrothed, is unexpectedly with child! And what is his initial response? Compassion! In a dream an angel of God tells Joseph to take her as his wife, and he does. In the Annunciation Mary hears the words “do not be afraid”. Her faith in God allows Mary to say, “May it be done to me according to your word.” Joseph also hears “do not be afraid”, and his faith moves him to take Mary into his home. Joseph’s obedience to God’s message demonstrates deep trust, faith, and willingness to embrace the unconventional.
God speaks to us in countless ways that call us to live a life of faith. Do we respond with an open trusting heart when the unexpected occurs? Joseph did something extraordinary – he acted with absolute trust in God. We should listen to the silence of our hearts and follow the witness of Joseph as we respond to God’s will.
We pray that we receive help to be open to the unexpected ways that God works in our lives, and act with trusting faith and compassion.
Brother Tim Paul, CFX