Advent 21st December

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly. But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been 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." Matthew 1:18-21

Readings

2 Samuel 7:1-14,
Hosea 11
Matthew 1:18-24

Reflection

Can you imagine the thoughts that must have gone through Joseph and Mary’s minds in  all that was taking place before them? Mary had at first been greatly troubled by the news from the angel Gabriel and asked, “How can this be?” (Luke 1:26-35). Joseph thought of putting her away secretly (Matt. 1:19) for Mary was engaged to him, yet was with child. That was truly a shock. How would you have responded? Obedience or denial? Acceptance or refusal? Yet like Mary and Joseph perhaps we may also ponder – “What child is this, why was this Babe, the Son of Mary born in a lowly stable?” Let us bring forth our incense, gold, and myrrh (prayers, possessions, praises) and lay them before the feet of Jesus just as those kings came and worshipped Him. May we be worshippers of Immanuel as we gather during this Advent season both in our individual homes and as a corporate body, for we are the church of the living God. As Joseph and Mary obeyed the words of the angel may we be obedient to the call of God in our lives. Joy, joy for Christ is born, the Babe, the Son of Mary. Is Christ born in you? “

Prayer

Lord, forgive me when I doubt your voice. 

Forgive me for the moments when I allow the world to speak so loudly that I cannot hear the tenderness of your whisper. 

Help me to be attentive to your voice, your word, your calling upon my life that I too may respond like Mary Joseph and be obedient.

Amen